Yoruba Male Ibeji or 'Twins' Figure

A chunky figure in a flat-topped crest, blue bead collar and a loose waist string

This male Ibeji or ‘twins’ figure is Yoruba, from Nigeria, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is carved wood. Among the Yoruba of Nigeria, twins are regarded as one Ibeji, a single soul sharing two bodies, and are generally considered sacred by birth. A compact, solid standing figure with a smooth pointed crest, a blunt nose and a collar of reddish and blue tube beads. A pale bead string rings the waist. The dark glossy finish rests on a thick round base. It is 2.75 inches wide, 2.5 deep and 9 high.

Short, stout and well accessorized, with no complaints.