LOBI STATUE BURKINA FASO Wood and metal H.: 87 cm (34¼ in.) A Lobi figure, Burkina Faso Provenance: Collection of Jean-Jacques Rotthier (1932–2009), Brussels, then passed down through the family  Among the Lobi people, these sculptures, known as bateba, were designed to act as intermediaries between the community and the protective spirits known as thila. Far from being mere representations, they were regarded as living entities capable of directly carrying out the will of the thila. Placed within shrines, the bateba figures were extensions of spiritual authority. They were charged with protecting both individuals and the community as a whole, warding off illness, averting misfortune and neutralising malevolent forces in order to preserve collective harmony. A LOBI FIGURE BURKINA FASO Wood and metal H.: 34¼ in. Provenance: Jean-Jacques Rotthier Collection (1932–2009), Brussels, then by descent Known among the Lobi as bateba, sculptures such as this one were carved to serve as intermediaries between the community and protective spirits known as thila. Far from being passive representations, these figures were regarded as living entities capable of carrying out the direct commands of the thila. Placed within shrines, bateba figures acted as tangible extensions of spiritual authority. They were entrusted with safeguarding individuals and entire communities, warding off illness, averting misfortune, and neutralising harmful forces in order to preserve collective well-being.