A very old female bateba statue representing a clan ancestor. Despite the ravages of time testifying to its age, this statue is undoubtedly by the hand of a great artist, having infused the dignified and proud presence characteristic of ancestor representations in Lobi statuary, here all movement and rhythm combining curves and geometric solutions. Lobi (or Nuna), Burkina Faso Hardwood, visible chips, significant erosion and age-related cracks, old patina from use and sacrifice. Height: 77.5cm Provenance: Jean-Michel Huguenin Jean-Michel Huguenin, Paris Robert Saintgery Collection, Paris Passed on by descent