Lobi (Ghana) Figure Wood Lobi (Burkina Faso) Figure Wood Lobi (Ghana) Figure Wood Lobi (Ghana) Figure Wood

One type of Lobi figure, called Bateba, has an important place within the Lobi cosmological structure. When placed upon an altar or presented to a Thil (an invisible spirit believed to control life), Bateba are considered alive. They function primarily as mediators between the Lobi and the Thila spirit, and are believed to have the ability to see, to communicate with each other, and to protect or assist. Each Bateba has a particular protective role. Specifically, this role is indicated by the figure's posture and form. In this case, the Bateba protects against sorcery. The figure with the open mouth was probably used to protect against evil spirits or to ward off those with evil intent. This "unhappy Bateba" is characterized by a mournful expression with hands over or below its mouth or at its chest. This figure protects against grief and brings good results in times of adversity. A common characteristic is the elongation of the left hand and/or left arm. In many West African cultures, the left hand is seen as the hand of greatest strength. This can symbolize power or a relationship to sorcery.