Description:

West Africa, Yoruba culture, Ibeji, ca. early 20th century. An old and well cared for carved wooden figure depicting a hermaphrodite with both female and male genitalia clearly delineated. Notice the painstaking attention to details on this piece, from the elaborately carved coiffure painted with organic blue pigment to the expressive facial details comprised of a wide toothy grin, almond-shaped eyes with lids and perforated pupils, not to mention the stunning Yoruba glass beadwork adorning the figure's neck (multicolored, red, white, and blue) and waist (black and pink). Beads were a sign of status and wealth among the Yoruba. Additionally a large white metal bracelet adorns his/her left wrist. Quite rare with generous remains of red pigment on the body, cobalt blue pigment on the incised hair, and beautiful, lustrous patina. Black painted, wquare wood mount. Size: figure itself measures 3.25" W x 10.25" H (8.3 cm x 26 cm); 10.5" H on stand

Provenance: Ex - Adeon Gallery, Nick Poolos collection acquired before 1975.

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#115548

  • Condition: Age cracks and old loss to integral base as shown.

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July 14, 2016 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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