Lobi figures are the enigmatic, brooding sculpture that protect the Lobi
people of Burkina Faso. Ranging in size from 7 - 47" high, most are
frontal, symmetrical and timeless sentinels expressing the traditional beliefs
of the Lobi. Several depart from the norm with animated gestures, asymmetry
or a great degree of symbolic abstraction. Heads were used similarly
to the figures.
The figures or heads were placed on family altars in the thilda,
a small sacristy or room in each dwelling. Each figure or head was not a
representation but an actual spirit, or tibil thil. It protected
the family and home from illness and other misfortunes. The spirit could
also be used for divination; it could demand offerings and additions of
other figures. The accumulation of statues on a family altar gave social
status and were passed on from father to son.
Click on a name to see larger images.
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The heads below have been sold and are left here for reference and educational
purposes.
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Photographs © Tim Hamill
GO TO LOBI DAGARI FIGURES PAGE
GO TO LOBI FIGURES ARCHIVES PAGE
GO TO FAMILY MATTERS EXHIBITION PAGE
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