Lobi Standing Female Figure, Based

Knees slightly bent. One hand to the chest, one to the abdomen. A figure at attention to something we cannot see.

The Lobi of Burkina Faso made figures for household shrines, tied to protective spirits, and small metal examples were also worn or kept close. This one is 20th century, six inches tall, in iron. A crested coiffure tops an oval face with incised eyes. A ringed necklace sits at the throat. A crosshatched cache-sexe hangs at the hips. The patina is rich, glossy brown, set off by a plain black base.

She keeps watch. It is what she is for.