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West African Lobi People "Bateba Ti Bala" Fertility Figure in Carved Wood

About the Item

From the West African country of Bukina Faso this Lobi People "Bateba Ti Bala" fertility Figure in carved wood would typically be placed in the ‘thilda’, a shrine or small room within the family dwelling. ‘Bateba Ti Bala’, which includes the Lobi maternity figure, which serves to ensure fertility or a successful birth. ‘Bateba’ means ‘wooden carved figure, and the Lobi figures fall into two basic categories, normal or ordinary Bateba, ‘Bateba Phuwe’ and unusual or extraordinary Bateba. The spirits are invisible with supernatural powers that they can use either for beneficial or malevolent purposes. Each village has their own ‘special’ spirit (‘dithil’) that sets the rules for the village as a whole. The Lobi population stretch over a large territory, including Burkina Faso, the Ivory Coast and into Ghana. The Lobi Community is not organized under the central rule of a chief, but adheres to the cult of a spirit called “thil” (pl. “thila”), who establishes the Community’s rules through the divination of the “thilda”. This "Bateba Ti Bala" was make by the Lobi People as a fertility figure to be used and was used in the Community for its expressed purpose. It was not made to sell. It is an authentic Lobi artifact. Dating is extremely difficult. It is however believed to be early 20th century or older. Measures: Figure: 7 1/2" wide x 9" deep x 38" high base: 9 1/2 wide x 9 wide x 3/4 high.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 38.75 in (98.43 cm)Width: 7.5 in (19.05 cm)Depth: 9 in (22.86 cm)
  • Style:
    Tribal (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Unknown
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. You could say that this carving is distressed because it is worn, or you could say that it is in excellent condition because it is whole. Fantastic piece with a beautiful patina.
  • Seller Location:
    Miami, FL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: DEC001441stDibs: LU98817941493
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