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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Bateba figure with bent legs. The face has a pronounced brow, carved eyes, and protruding nose, mouth and ears. A narrow strip of wood hair runs down the centre of the head from forehead to back of head, with a triangular protrusion at nape of neck. The figure’s back is straight, while the stomach protrudes to the front and has a knob as a navel. The arms hang at the sides, with all five fingers carved in each hand, whereas the legs are bent at the waist and knees, and end in roughly carved feet.

History Of Use

Bateba figures are grouped together with other materials in domestic shrines. Bateba represent the Thils, a family’s guardian spirits that act as protective intermediaries between natural and mortal worlds.

Narrative

The Lobi live in Ghana, Burkino Faso and Cote d'Ivoire; the place of origin is uncertain.

Item History

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