
Description
A fine venavi figure made out of wood. This miniature is used as a doll among the Ewe people. The Ewe people of Ghana celebrate the birth of twins as a good omen. Twins known as Venavi, lead a life of parallel experiences as they are fed, bathed, and similarly dressed. However if one of the twins dies a Venovi figure is purchased to represent the deceased twin and is equally maintained as though alive, being washed and fed.Like the well-known Ibeji of the Yoruba that represent the same idea of portraying the deceased twin in a sculptural form, Ewe dolls are shown as adults and represent deceased twins.They are delightful miniature carvings and have a place in any collection for their carving and presence and for what they represent.
Provenance: former private collection from the Netherlands.
Object
Venavi figure
Ethnic group:
Ewe
Country:
Togo
Material:
Wood, Textile
Estimated period:
Mid 20th century
Sold with stand:
No
Dimensions:
17x6x5 cm
Weight:
60 gram
Condition:
Good condition, used with some signs of wear
Reserve: $70.00
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $39.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from The Netherlands
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Provenance: former private collection from the Netherlands.
Object
Venavi figure
Ethnic group:
Ewe
Country:
Togo
Material:
Wood, Textile
Estimated period:
Mid 20th century
Sold with stand:
No
Dimensions:
17x6x5 cm
Weight:
60 gram
Condition:
Good condition, used with some signs of wear
Reserve: $70.00
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Ancestor figure – Wood, Textile – Ewe – Togo
Estimate $80-$100
Starting Price
$35
1 bidder is watching this item
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Decorative Tribal Art Sale
Feb 26, 2026 1:00 PM ESTNew York, NY, United States
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