Early 20th C. Yoruba Wood Ibeji Figure w/ Bead Strand

**Originally Listed At $400**

West Africa, Nigeria, Yoruba peoples, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden male figure known as an "ibeji" standing with attenuated legs atop an integral circular plinth. The man has a slightly distended abdomen, holds both curving arms below his waist, and has rounded shoulders which taper inward to a slender neck. The characteristically elongated head boasts raised almond-shaped eyes, a petite nose above pursed lips, a broad forehead, and several lengthy scarification grooves which trace from the corners of the mouth to above the temples. The lobed coiffure displays several striations and a strand of small beads hangs around the waist. Size: 3.2" W x 9.75" H (8.1 cm x 24.8 cm); 10.5" H (26.7 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: Estate of R. Pearson, Denver, Colorado, USA; Mr. Pearson collected from the third quarter of the 20th century until he passed away.; ex-Arte Primitivo Gallery, New York, New York, USA

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 to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#143266
Condition Report: Small nicks and abrasions to coiffure, head, body, and base, with softening to some finer details, and light encrustations, otherwise intact and very good. Light earthen deposits and fine patina throughout.