147 - Important Baathil ritual stake head, Lobi, Burkina Faso.

Important Baathil ritual stake head, Lobi, Burkina Faso. A remarkable wooden sculpture depicting an anthropomorphic head with a delicately sculpted face, arched, nearly closed eyes, a slender nose, and sensually protruding lips. The piece is dominated by an imposing ogival headdress entirely covered with fine parallel incisions, harmoniously following the contours of the skull. The refinement of the craftsmanship, the balance of the proportions, and the quality of the sculptural treatment particularly distinguish this example. Beautiful antique brown-gray patina with reddish hues, showing traces of light pigments, signs of wear, and surface alterations. Long, tapered tenon designed to be inserted into a base. Base included. Height: 35 cm