West Africa, Nigeria, Yoruba people, ca. early 20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden Ibeji figure representing a nude female twin, adorned with scarification marks and remains of painted pigments. Among the Yoruba, Ibeji are understood as two individuals sharing one soul. If one twin dies - whether in childhood or adulthood - the surviving twin is believed to possess only half a soul, diminishing their chances of thriving. To honor the deceased twin, a figure is carved and dedicated to Ibeji, the deity of twins, serving as the earthly vessel for the departed twin's spirit. Size: 3.25" L x 3" W x 13.25" H (8.3 cm x 7.6 cm x 33.7 cm)

Provenance: Ex - Adeon Gallery, Nick Poolos collection, Chicago, IL 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.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

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.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.

#113784

    Condition:
  • Old loss to the base and foot as shown. Fading and losses to pigments. Surface abrasions and nicks, but otherwise good condition.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

by Artemis Fine Arts
January 30, 2025 8:00 AM MST
686 S. Taylor Ave., #108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 27.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000