Pair of twin figures "venavi"

Description

wood, partly shiny patina, pokerwork, nearly identical posture and facial features, the female a little bit taller than the male counterpart, both wearing strings of miniature glass beads around neck, hips and ankles, tattoos on the neck, min. dam., slight traces of abrasion, base;
just like the “ibeji” figures of the Yoruba, the “venavi” figures were carved for deceased twins or triplets. They serve as abode for the spirit of the deceased. Ewe women used to care for them, they were fed, washed and caressed.