Hohovi Figure

Fon people, Benin

10 inches, hardwood

Twin figures are made by the Yoruba (who call them Ibeji or Ibedji) and the Ewe (who call them Venavi), as well as the Fon (who call them Hohovi). This is a large and very dramatic example of the latter. Obviously female, this robust form looks like it has the energy to leap up at you. The color is a dusty, light brown with darker, shinier tones coming through at the places most prone to wear, giving it a nice patina. Not quite as dark as the photos suggest.