Yoruba Male Ibeji or 'Twins' Figure

Orange beads, a blue and white sash and shell eyes give this one a lot of attitude

This male Ibeji or ‘twins’ figure is Yoruba, from Nigeria, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is painted & carved wood. The Yoruba are historically known for a very high rate of twin births, and although twins were once feared in ancient times, they came to be seen as bringers of good fortune. A standing figure with a pointed head and inset pale eyes, a collar of orange, blue and white beads, and a bead belt over a plaited-pattern apron. Shoulders slope down into a cloak-like silhouette. The feet stand on a gridded base. It is 3 inches wide, 3 deep and 9 high.

A well-dressed little character with excellent orange taste.