Yoruba Male Ibeji or 'Twins' Figure

Heavy blue-and-red bead strands drape this seated-looking figure like a coat

This male Ibeji or ‘twins’ figure is Yoruba, from Nigeria, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is painted & carved wood & leather. 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 figure with a ribbed rounded crest and a patterned face. A dark ring collar and stacked beads at the neck, long cylinders of blue and red beads draped from the shoulders, and bright bracelets at the base. The finish is dark and glossy. It is 5 inches wide, 2.75 deep and 10.25 high.

The bead strands add weight, and the figure carries them well.