Description:

West Africa, Nigeria, Yoruba peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. A pair of hand-carved wooden Ere Ibeji figures depicting a male and female, a symbolic representations of twins in Yoruba culture. Both figures stand nude on integral bases and feature similar conical coiffures, adorned with vibrant beaded jewelry made from glass and coconut. The Yoruba have one of the highest twin birth rates globally. To the Yoruba, twins (Ibeji) are seen as two individuals sharing a single soul. If one twin passes away, whether in childhood or adulthood, the surviving twin is believed to be incomplete, with only half a soul. In such cases, a carved Ere Ibeji figure becomes the spiritual vessel for the deceased twin, ensuring the souls of the twins remain united. These figures reflect profound cultural beliefs about life, death, and the spiritual connection of twins. Size: 3.4" L x 1.5" W x 7.75" H (8.6 cm x 3.8 cm x 19.7 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection

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#190282

    Condition:
  • Old losses / gouges to the male figure's chest and head. Chips and abrasions to other high pointed areas. The female figure has a stable fissure on the base.

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January 23, 2025 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000