Description:

**Originally Listed At $350**

West Africa, Nigeria, Yoruba culture, ca. early 20th century. A hand-carved wooden nude male twin ibeji figure, possibly from the Oyo group, depicted standing with arms at his sides on an integral circular base. The stylized head features large, bulging eyes and scarification marks on the cheeks, crowned with a tall, incised coiffure retaining remnants of its original indigo-blue pigment. The Yoruba have historically experienced a high incidence of multiple births and regard twins as extraordinary beings. Twins are believed to possess the ability to bring great prosperity to their families or misfortune to those who neglect to honor them. Revered as powerful spirits during life, twins are memorialized with carved figures following their death. Size: 3" L x 1.75" W x 9.25" H (7.6 cm x 4.4 cm x 23.5 cm)

Provenance: ex-Adeon Gallery, Nick Poolos collection, Chicago, Illinois, USA acquired before 1970

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

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#113803

  • Condition: Old inactive insect activity, with small bore holes to the top of the head, and base. Stable pressure fissure and remains of blue pigment on the head. Nice patina throughout.

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Shipping

Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping

December 29, 2025 10:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 + $500