Item.
African Ake-Ievbe Janus-faced male maternity figure. Very rare example. Nigeria.
Origin.
The Ake-Ievbe people mainly found in the Etsako West area of Edo Statw in Nigeria. They are a subset of the bigger Afemai or Afenmai people.
Use.
This figure is used for maternity functions in Ake-Ievbe society and the last picture shows a Fetish priest holding a similar figure in a shrine.
Description.
Fine and rare tribal example created by artisans of a relatively small ethnic group in Nigeria. The figure shows a Janus face and carries on his back a smaller figure with a Janus face also. Figure displays a visible and phallus.
Attractive dark patination , lustrous to some parts, with scarification marks to the back, front, arms and leg of figure and similarly for small figure clinging to the back of the much larger male figure.
Attention to detailing and fine artisan workmanship on display throughout . The maternity figure is vetted a used example believed to be decades old. It was obtained in it's area of original creation and use.
Some minor wood degradation but figure is in excellent collector condition throughout.
Stunning, very rare and authentic tribal item. A fine addition to any collection.
I can supply more pictures and information on request. Thank you.
Measurement.
63cm high x 16cm wide x 10cm deep.
Delivery information.
Item will be sent using quality UPS tracked delivery.
We are a UK-based business but we source and field-collect authentic tribal treasures in person on the ground in Africa. We therefore sometimes send big and heavy items directly from our storage facility in West Africa to avoid duplication of effort and expenses.
Please allow at least two weeks for delivery after payment is made. Thank you.