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Western Africa, Burkina Faso, Lobi peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. A standing anthropomorphic bateba figure, hand-carved from light wood. Depicted nude with both male and female characteristics and appearing to be pregnant, the figure stands with both arms held tightly against the sides of a tubular torso. Given this sculpture’s protective role, it was most likely placed on or around an altar as part of a group of various ‘bateba’ figures (literal translation of bateba is “wooden carved figure”). The precise meaning of the figure’s shape and posture is difficult to ascertain, since carvings like this example were created as the result of a seer’s vision for an afflicted individual who was suffering a particular malady. Custom wooden display stand included. Size: 8.5″ H (21.6 cm); 12″ H (30.5 cm) on included custom stand.
Condition: This is a fragment of a larger standing bateba figure. Expected age-commensurate surface wear, losses to areas of both arms, legs, and head, with several stable hairline fissures, and light discoloration. Light earthen deposits and nice brown patina throughout.
Provenance: ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, Illinois, USA acquired prior to 1970
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