Female Figure (Bateba Phuwe) Late 19th or early 20th century

This wooden sculpture, a female Bateba figure by an anonymous Lobi artist, embodies complex spiritual beliefs. These figures traditionally represent spirits that act as intermediaries between the human and spirit worlds. Notice the figure's static pose, which is imbued with a sense of watchful readiness. This stance is a visual echo of similar figures across cultures, such as ancient Egyptian statues, which were also created as guardians or protectors. The raw, unadorned form of the sculpture speaks to the Lobi people's worldview, where the natural and supernatural are intimately connected. One cannot help but feel a sense of empathy towards the figure, as the emotional and psychological weight it carries mirrors our own shared human experiences. The Bateba figure serves as a reminder of the timeless human impulse to seek protection and guidance from the unseen forces that shape our lives. Its continued presence echoes the cyclical progression of symbols, resurfacing across time and cultures.