Hermaphrodite Statuette, Antique Wood, Lobi Burkina Faso, Early 20th Century, African Tribal Art

Hermaphrodite statuette presenting a standing figure, camped on slightly bent legs. The belly is round, and the arms marked in a T form an original geometric relief, partially merging with the chest. The whole, treated with formal rigor, evokes a stylized totemic figure. The face, with a shaved forehead, displays a soft and internalized expression, the eyes in the shape of coffee beans, the mouth half-open. At the top of the head remains a fetish amalgam of ritual material, with prophylactic virtues. Wood, old erosion on the lower part, brown and red patina of use, slightly crusty, fetish amalgam on the head. Marks of use and time, good general condition of conservation (see photos). Lobi, Burkina Faso, first half of the 20th century dimensions: 20 × 4 cm with base: 21 cm. provenance: former Belgian collection Sold with certificate of authenticity from the expert Serge Reynes, guarantee of origin and period. * Shipping costs on estimate. "Bateba statuettes could take atypical forms, like this hermaphroditic figure with an ambivalent reading. These representations were invested with specific functions, often linked to protection, fertility or the balance of spiritual forces. The presence of a fetish amalgam at the top of the skull reinforces the idea of a targeted ritual use, framed by the divinatory practices of Lobi diviners."