Standing Figure, bateba

Lobi, Burkina Faso
Early 20th c.

Provenance:  Dr. Klaus-Jochen Kruger, Berlin

A distinctive trait within sub-Saharan African tribes, particularly among the Lobi people, is the practice of carving by all males. This tradition accounts for the wide range in quality and quantity of Lobi artwork available. This specific piece is known as a Bateba, skillfully crafted by a confident and talented artisan. The figure’s countenance exudes profound emotion, with a subtle asymmetry in its features and an upward gaze that imparts a unique personality. The tripartite coiffure has been executed with precision, adding to the overall appeal of the piece. Notably, the patina is deep and encrusted, bearing witness to the passage of time, and it is carved from an exceptionally hard wood, showcasing the enduring craftsmanship of its creator.