Paire de statuettes, Yoruba (Igbomina), Nigeria

ibeji, aux corps puissamment charpentés, l'une féminine, l'autre masculine, les jambes légèrement fléchies reposant sur d'épaisses sandales cannelées. La tête de grande dimension présente un visage aux traits marqués : grands yeux cillés inscrits dans de larges orbites, nez busqué, lèvres ourlées. Chaque joue est gravée de trois scarifications verticales, la poitrine ornée d'une amulette, le cou de colliers en perles de verre. Belle patine d'usage, brune, grumeleuse dans les creux.

Good condition overall. Wear consistent with age and use within the culture. Male figure: crack to side of face at proper left, approximately 11cm. Another hairline crack to pendant. Hairline crack to proper right eye, approximately 2.5cm. Metal inlay missing from proper left eye. Female figure: cracks. Several to reverse, longest approximately 12cm from crown to neck. Metal inlay missing from proper left eye.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

cf. Chemeche (2003 : 210, n° 174) pour une paire d'ibeji stylistiquement comparable, attribuée par Pemberton et Picton aux Yoruba Igbomina, de la région d'Ajasse, conservée au SMA African Art Museum, Tenafly, New Jersey.