Description:

West Africa, Nigeria, Yoruba culture, ca. late 20th century CE. West Africa, Nigeria, Yoruba culture, ca. late 20th century CE. A matching pair of hand-carved wooden Ibeji figures, representing a nude male and female, each crafted from a single piece of wood. Both figures feature incised scarification on their cheeks and wear brass bracelets on their left wrists. The Yoruba have one of the highest twin birth rates in the world, and this has given rise to unique traditions. When one twin dies, whether in childhood or adulthood, the surviving twin is believed to possess only half a soul. To provide a resting place for the deceased twin's soul, Ibeji figures are carved by a priest. These effigies are traditionally honored with prayers, offerings, and libations to ensure the twin's peace and happiness in the afterlife. Size: 4" W x 11" H (10.2 cm x 27.9 cm)

Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection

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#189382

  • Condition: Chips and abrasions to the wood base and verso of the heads on both. Small chip to the woman's nose. Otherwise intact.

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November 22, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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$300 $999 $50
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$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
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$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000