Standing Protective Talisman, kotee
Lobi, Southwestern, Burkina Faso
Early 20th c
Old American collection
When a Lobi travels beyond his village, especially to areas in the bush between villages, they become vulnerable to attack by malevolent kotee spirits. As defense the Lobi carry talismans to protect themselves. This example was most likely worn, evident from the small distressed piercing found under its left shoulder; where a cord would have been strung through it.
Standing Protective Talisman, kotee
Lobi, Southwestern, Burkina Faso
Early 20th c
Old American collection
When a Lobi travels beyond his village, especially to areas in the bush between villages, they become vulnerable to attack by malevolent kotee spirits. As defense the Lobi carry talismans to protect themselves. This example was most likely worn, evident from the small distressed piercing found under its left shoulder; where a cord would have been strung through it.