Beautifully carved medium sized LOBI BATEBA, Burkina Faso, ca 1960

Medium-sized beautifully carved Lobi Bateba from Burkina Faso. Tightly carved hardwood statue, stylistically very pure and aesthetically very beautiful statue. A standing figure with the arms tight along the body, the elbows bent at a 45 degree angle and the hands resting next to the stomach. Tight legs, slightly bent at knee height and with feet like blocks. The face is powerful in appearance. Striking are the eyes, formed by two horizontal "beams". Sturdy ears like a tilted horseshoe. The connoisseur may recognize the carver from this.

The statue is placed on a foot.

Good quality and strong statue for a very modest price!

Length: 31 cm, including foot approx. 33.5 cm
Weight: 373 grams
Origin: Burkina Faso
Date: Mid 20th century

(code 22)

Below is additional information about Lobi Bateba statues

Lobi Bateba statues are sculptures from the Lobi, an ethnic group that mainly lives in Burkina Faso, Ghana and Ivory Coast. These statues play a crucial role in the spiritual and religious practices of the Lobi.

Characteristics of Lobi Bateba Statues

Shape and Appearance: Bateba statues are often upright figures with a stylized and sometimes robust appearance. They can be both male and female and are characterized by their expressive faces and dynamic postures.

Material: These statues are usually carved from wood, although some examples can also be made of stone or clay. The finish is often simple, with an emphasis on the expressive power of the statue.

Symbolism: Bateba statues are visual representations of protective spirits. They have different appearances and postures, each with a specific meaning and function.

Use and Meaning

Spiritual Protection: Bateba statues are used by the Lobi as protective amulets against evil spirits and negative influences. They are placed in altars in the home or around the village to protect the community.

Communication with the Spirit World: These statues act as intermediaries between people and the spirit world. They are often consulted during rituals and ceremonies to ask for advice and protection.

Diversity of Statues: There are different types of Bateba statues, including:

Bateba Duntundora: Protective statues that represent aggressive spirits.

Bateba Ti Puo: Statues that are depicted sitting or standing and offer protection against disease.

Bateba Phuwe: Statues that are used to promote fertility.

Cultural Context

Lobi People: The Lobi are an agricultural community with a strong emphasis on spiritual and religious practices. Their art and culture are deeply intertwined with their daily lives and rituals.

Ritual Importance: Bateba statues are integral to the Lobi religion and are often passed down from generation to generation. They are revered and cared for as living entities.

Change and Contemporary Use

Modernization and Outside Influences: As with many traditional art forms, the practices surrounding Bateba statues have undergone changes due to modernization and outside influences. Although some traditional practices have declined, the spiritual value of the statues remains for many Lobi.

Art Market: Lobi Bateba statues are also highly sought after on the international art market. They are valued for their expressive power and unique aesthetics, and are collected by museums and private collectors around the world.

Conclusion

Lobi Bateba statues are powerful symbols of the spiritual and cultural wealth of the Lobi. They offer protection and serve as intermediaries with the spirit world, and remain an important part of the Lobi cultural heritage, despite the changes and challenges of modern times.