Outstanding old pair of IBEJI Ibedji twins Yoruba Start Price USD 2,600.00 Current Price USD 2,600.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Tuesday, July 01, 2008 End Time Friday, July 11, 2008 Location London See more about 'Outstanding old pair of IBEJI Ibedji twins Yoruba ' Description You won't see another pair of Ibeji of this quality on eBay! We  are private collectors of Ibeji (part of our collection is illustrated in George Chemeche's book), regretfully having to part with this male and female pair.Stylistically we think they are probably from the Shaki region, early 1900s. Each figures is 27cm or 10 1/2 inches tall (not counting the base on which they are mounted) and has strands of red and blue beads around the neck. These are emblematic of (red) the Thunder God Shango, who is the God associated with twins, and (blue) the Goddess of healing waters. They have pierced ears and distinctive headdresses,well highlighted with Reckitts Blue. The patina is particularly fine, with remains of camwood powder and other traces of ritual practice (especially on the face) and a worn spot on the back of each head, as a result of their having been carried around by their mother in a sling.  The female has lost one foot, one metal eye stud and part of her base; the male is missing one ear. They are a remarkable example of Yoruba carving, with skillfully balanced volumes, and combining dignity with 'cuteness'.  Provenance: Flak Galerie, Rue des Beaux Arts, Paris. The Yoruba peope of Nigeria have a genetic predisposition to produce twins, which are seen as a divine favor, but also spiritually powerful and potentially dangerous. Ere ibeji  or ibedji (twin figures) are carved when twins are born and kept on family altars. They are powdered like babies, rubbed with palm oil and 'fed' with offerings of food. They are also carried by the mother of twins when she goes out, to advertise her status. The figures have a distinctive pose, disproportinately large heads and short legs (like babies) but fully adult sexual characteristics.The style of carving varies regionally and the carvers vary in skill. The author of this pair was clearly a master of his profession. The ibejis will be shipped by Fedex, DHL  or equivalent from London, UK. Actual cost of shipping may be below $75, dependng on destination, in which case we will refund the excess.. If it is more, you still pay only $75. Place a Bid!