Africa, Burkina Faso, Lobi peoples, ca. early 20th century. A standing female Bateba figure, carved from wood with a gray-brown, encrusted, sacrificial patina. A particularly unusual example, with delineated legs, a distended abdomen, outie navel, pendulous breasts, and slender arms held above the waist. Resting upon the stocky neck is an elongated head which boasts deep-set eyes, a pointy protruding nose, closed lips, cup-shaped ears, and a sharp jawline with a pointy chin. Given this figure's protective role, it was most likely placed on or around an altar as part of a group of various 'bateba' figures (bateba phuwe). The precise meaning of each figure's shape and posture is difficult to ascertain, since these carvings were created as the result of a seer's vision for an afflicted individual. An impressive example replete with wonderful patina and a strong, monumental presence. Size: 19.125" H (48.6 cm); 21.125" H (53.7 cm) on included custom stand.
Provenance: ex-old private New England collection, acquired in the 1970s; ex private collection J. Morris, MD collection, Florida, USA, 1960s; ex-Florida museum, 1973 to present; Inv # S-73-43
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#159397
Condition
Losses to one breast and lower legs as shown. Expected surface wear with abrasions and nicks to browline, lips, ears, and other high pointed areas commensurate with age. Slight desiccation of lower legs due to old moisture damage. Stable 3.25" age crack from neck to chest. Otherwise in overall good condition with excellent original shrine patina.