Sensitive Lobi Figure
Origin: Burkina Faso
Circa: 19th Century
Dimensions: 24 in (60.1 cm) Tall
Materials: Hard Wood
Provenance: Pace Primitive, NY

Lobi do not carve masks, instead they create male and female spirit figures (bateba). Bateba are considered living beings that can see, communicate, and intervene on behalf of its owner in the spirit realm. Lobi figures vary in size from 2 inches to 2 feet tall. Inside Lobi homes there is a small shrine set apart for the worship of ancestors. These shrines are filled with a variety of wooden statues together with assortment of terra cotta sculptures, iron staffs, etc. Sacrifices are often made at these shrines to ensure the goodwill of the ancestors, and to avoid Illness and misfortune. The figures preside over foundation rites, essential for obtaining protection for new homes. They were also used by soothsayers and by the leaders of the family cult. Source: www.zyama.com

$3,500.00