Lobi Bateba Figure
This Lobi masterpiece is offered to you at an unbelievably incredible price, a decision we stand by wholeheartedly. Take advantage of it. We use the term masterpiece for its sculptural quality, authenticity, proportions, expression, significant dimensions, and of course, its patina. Rest assured, this object has nothing to envy from Lobi artworks showcased at prestigious exhibitions or fairs. To top it off, this statue comes from the renowned Hess family collection in Switzerland, which needs no introduction!
The Lobi reside across an extensive territory spanning three countries: Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire. Their culture is deeply rooted in reverence for spirits known as Thil (or Thila in plural). These Thila have significantly influenced Lobi sculptors in creating various statues with protective, healing, or fertility-enhancing purposes. The most commonly encountered type of statue among them is called bateba, to which a qualifier is added depending on its specific role.
These figures, collectively referred to as Bateba, are commissioned by priests and diviners upon the request of a particular Thil deity. They are kept in sanctuaries as living entities that perceive, communicate, and intervene in the life of Lobi villages to ward off illness or sorcery.
02470
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1940
- Size
- 51 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Hess Family, Basel, Suisse
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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This Lobi masterpiece is offered to you at an unbelievably incredible price, a decision we stand by wholeheartedly. Take advantage of it. We use the term masterpiece for its sculptural quality, authenticity, proportions, expression, significant dimensions, and of course, its patina. Rest assured, this object has nothing to envy from Lobi artworks showcased at prestigious exhibitions or fairs. To top it off, this statue comes from the renowned Hess family collection in Switzerland, which needs no introduction!
The Lobi reside across an extensive territory spanning three countries: Burkina Faso, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire. Their culture is deeply rooted in reverence for spirits known as Thil (or Thila in plural). These Thila have significantly influenced Lobi sculptors in creating various statues with protective, healing, or fertility-enhancing purposes. The most commonly encountered type of statue among them is called bateba, to which a qualifier is added depending on its specific role.
These figures, collectively referred to as Bateba, are commissioned by priests and diviners upon the request of a particular Thil deity. They are kept in sanctuaries as living entities that perceive, communicate, and intervene in the life of Lobi villages to ward off illness or sorcery.