Lobi bateba figures have a wide degree of style and are made for a wide range of purposes. Lobi bateba figures are believed to be able to act on behalf of their owner, and are considered a living being and have the ability to act out against forces that could harm it’s owner or bring good things to it’s owner depending on it’s intended purpose. BATEBA - Generally, the term "bateba" translates to a "wooden carved figure". This fine, abstract janus head was part of an ensemble which would have included an earthen body. The elongated neck was inserted into the clay to complete the figure, which portrayed a thil or beneficent ancestor. Thus the erosion on the lower part of the neck occurred as it was embedded in its earthen body. The ensemble resided in a shrine along with other figures and objects relevant to that spirit. They were believed able to exert influence for the benefit of their devotees.
Height: 15 1/2” x Width: 4” x Depth: 4”
NOTE: Sotheby’s NY May 11, 2012 Lot # 118 sold for $22,500 and was very similar.