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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
Lobi : Lobi Sculpture of a Woman with Raised Arms
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Lobi Sculpture of a Woman with Raised Arms - PF.6201
Origin: Burkina Faso
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
8.75" (22.2cm) high
Collection: African
Medium: Wood
£7,500.00
Location: UAE
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| Description |
There is a distinct group of Lobi figural
sculptures (known as bateba) that feature
dramatic gestures such as surprise or
melancholy. This sculpture, depicting a woman
with both her arms raised towards the heavens,
is one such example. While similar postures exist
in the works of other tribes, specifically the
nearby Dogon/Tellum, and often signify a prayer
for rain, the gesture is thought to have a very
different meaning in this case. Females with
their arms raised are as spiritual aids in times of
dire need. When one is cursed, this sculpture
will aid the individual to lift the hex. This
sculpture invokes the aid of deceased ancestors
in order to counteract the influence of the curse.
The Lobi revere a spiritual force known as the
thil that dictate the laws of the tribe to a local
diviner. Each household reserves a corner of the
abode to a small shrine dedicated to the thil.
Therefore, if one suffers from the malfeasance
powers of a curse, it is implied the thil are
working against that person. By placing this
sculpture on the household shrine and honoring
it with sacrifices of oil, blood, and other such
materials, the thil spirits will presumably be
appeased and lift their harmful hex from off of
the household. Thus, life can return to normal
and projects, once initiate, can now be
completed safely without fear of the curse. More
than a gorgeous work of art, this sculpture is a
charm capable of communicating with the
spiritual world. When forces of evil beyond our
control afflict us, this powerful bateba can
restore harmony and equilibrium to our lives and
ensure that those out to harm us are appeased.
- (PF.6201)
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