Group of three protective figures "bateba phuwe"
Burkina Faso, Lobi
not available anymore
Provenance
André Lefèvre, Paris, FranceSize
H: 24 cm
25 cm resp. 28,5 cm
H: 9.4 inch
9.8 inch resp. 11.2 inch
Description
wood, greyish brown patina, of different size, showing diverse gestures, the faces carved nearly identical, one of the figures supporting a chameleon on the head, spotted sacrificial patina, slightly dam., missing parts, traces of insect caused damage, cracks, each figure mounted on metal plate;
“bateba phuwe” figures have various functions: they should protect humans against witches and sorcerers. They fulfill various tasks, like the search for an adequate spouse, the healing of infertility or the prevention of illnesses.