People/Culture: Ewe Region/Country: Ghana (Ewe area) Materials: Wood, glass beads Dimensions: Height 18 cm (19 cm on stand, included) Dating: 20th century Provenance: Collected by the owner (in situ) Condition: Age-consistent wear and lustrous handling patina; feet missing; minor nicks and surface abrasions; beads intact; overall very good for age—see photos. Stand: Custom metal stand included Description A fine and elegant Ewe twin figure, often referred to as venavi, carved with dynamic, well-detailed features and an elaborate coiffure. The figure wears beaded waist ornaments, and its lustrous patina testifies to long, devoted handling. Although the feet are missing, the sculpture retains a strong presence and charm. Context Among the Ewe (as with the Yoruba ibeji tradition), twin figures were dressed, handled and cared for as living children—bathed, fed symbolically and kept near the family—to maintain balance and honor the memory of the deceased twin. This example shows the refinement and intimacy typical of such devotional objects. Highlights - Classic Ewe venavi with elaborate hair and beaded waist - Lustrous patina from prolonged handling - Collected by the owner; stand included