Lobi African Female Shrine Figure Ghana Burkina Faso Ivory Coast 20th Century

Description

Lobi African Shrine Figure Ghana Burkina Faso Cote d'Ivoire 20th Century
A wonderfully stylized example of a Bateba Thil or Spirit figure with one leg extended, the idol is seated on a stool, only one leg is present likely referring to some esoteric magic purpose. Lobi peoples, Burkina faso, West Africa. This is mid-
20th Century, but could also be older.  It stands on a wood base that is painted black.  Please note the detailed carving on the head, where you can see the small hammering marks in the wood.
The Lobi people, who live in Burkina Faso and Ghana, revere spirits known as Thil, and build shrines to them, which are filled with figures like this one. These figures, known as Bateba, are believed to embody the Thil spirits. The Bateba are looked upon as living beings charged with special powers who move, fight against witches, and have intercourse with each other. The Lobi believe that the Bateba are superior to humans, but inferior to the Thil spirits, so the Bateba is first activated by putting it in a Thil shrine. The Bateba keep sorcerers away, and help the Thil ward off misfortune. They also play a role in the divination system.
Measurements:
Height with stand: 8 inches; Figure: 6 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 3
Weight:
9 oz
Provenance:
Eugene Netzer, NY
Price: 7.99
Shipping:
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Shipping:
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