Yoruba Ere Ibeji (Oyo-Oshogbo) Male Twin Figure, Encrusted Patina, ca. 1910

Description

Authentic Early 20
th
Century Yoruba Ere Ibeji (Oyo-Oshogbo) Male Twin Figure, Encrusted Patina
Item Description.
An early 20
th
century Yoruba carved wood ere ibeji male twin figure.
These were not mere “dolls”.
They were used to as vessels to contain the spirit of a deceased twin and were treated as the living.
This example has the wear patterns, stress cracking, dirt, encrusted patina, pigmentation, fiber & offering remains expected based on its estimated age.
Condition Details
.
Item is in as found condition, worn and dirty, but appropriate.
Issues noted;
missing wood of the coiffure area on the front left extending to the top knot and the right side extending back towards the back of the head; a section of wood missing from the right ear; missing section of wood of the left eye; missing section of wood on the chin, two missing sections of wood along the right side jaw line (the “damage” to the ear, eye and jaw line appear old and possibly intentional); a stress crack running through the pupil of the right eye; a stress crack running through the left eye extending up to the hairline; a stress crack beginning at the top of the neck extending down through the left pectoral; stress crack of the lower left groin; loss of pigment in the coiffure; coated with dirt and grime appropriate for its age and use.
Size.
11 ½ in. x 3 in. x 3 in. (height x width x depth)
All items in this auction are legal to buy/sell under U.S. statute covering cultural patrimony per United States Code 2600, CHAPTER 14 -- CONVENTION ON CULTURAL PROPERTY.
Guaranteed to be as described or your money back!
102013