A female bateba statuette in a seated position, legs bent in a rare position. "According to a study by Mr. Alain Rémond, it is the work of a Téésé sculptor, a caste of great sculptors, and, according to Madeleine Père, represents the Niba, the first mother and giver of fertility to women" (comments in the Hélène Leloup archives). Lobi, Burkina Faso Hardwood, with visible age-related wear and very fine old patina. Height: 30.5cm Provenance: Hélène Leloup Collection, Paris Passed on by descent