Lot 294, Auction 3/19/2026: Three Lobi Wood Bateba Shrine Figures – Burkina Faso

$455.00

In stock

West Africa, Burkina Faso, Lobi peoples, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A compelling group of three carved wooden bateba shrine figures created by Lobi artists of southwestern Burkina Faso. Each sculpture presents a stylized human form with elongated proportions, simplified anatomy, and expressive facial features characteristic of Lobi carving traditions. The figures were originally intended for placement within domestic or village shrines, where they served as spiritual intermediaries associated with protection, guidance, and communication with supernatural forces. The largest figure and the most slender example represent nude females, their bodies rendered with subtle indications of breasts and hips, emphasizing fertility and generative power. Between them stands a smaller nude male figure, distinguished by a slightly different torso modeling and facial treatment. Size of largest: 2.8″ W x 11.5″ H (7.1 cm x 29.2 cm)

Despite their modest scale, the figures convey a striking presence through their upright stance, simplified limbs, and carefully carved heads with pronounced eyes and noses.

Among the Lobi, bateba figures function as protective and advisory spirits placed within shrines or household compounds. Carved by specialist sculptors, they were believed to house or attract spiritual forces that could ward off illness, misfortune, or malevolent influences. Their forms range from highly abstract to more naturalistic, yet all maintain the direct, powerful aesthetic that defines Lobi sacred sculpture. This trio reflects the diversity of such figures while preserving the quiet authority that made bateba an essential element of Lobi spiritual life.

Condition: Largest has some perforation and areas of old, inactive insect damage. All have nicks, abrasions, small chips, and stable fissures to wood. Rich patina throughout. Metal tube inserted in proper right foot of largest figure.

Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection

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