Shrine Figure, bateba

Lobi, Burkina Faso
Early 20th c.

Previous Collection: Dr. Klaus-Jochen Kruger, Berlin

Standing on thick powerful legs this fine Lobi Janus figure is sculpted by a known hand. Possessing great attention to detail; its naturalistic faces have beautifully carved features, such as raised oval shaped eyes and protruding lips. Carved from hardwood with a deep aged encrusted patina from decades of ritual libations and use.  The face at the back of the sculpture is believed to represent the spirit or soul of the figure. According to Lobi beliefs, the spirit or soul is in the back of the head, so carving another face on the back of the figure serves as a visual representation of the soul. In addition to representing the soul, the face on the back of the figure may also serve a protective function. The Lobi believe that evil spirits and malevolent forces can enter the body through the face, so by carving another face on the back of the figure, they are symbolically protecting it from harm.