VENAVI twin statue of the EWE, Ghana, ca 1960

A Venavi statue is made when one or both twins die. The Venavi are worshipped every day. They are subject to specific care, including during meals, outings or travel. Food is served to these statues, people carry them with them and put them to bed at night. The cult of the Venavi consists of perpetuating the memory of deceased twins. Otherwise, if affected by the neglect, the belief says that these statues get angry and take revenge by disrupting the existence of the living. When honoured, the sculptures bring prosperity and protection from all kinds of dangers. The Venavi is generally stored in a box with one or more holes, which is used as a seat. Special meals are made to feed or water these pieces. The Venavi is stored by the owner at home or carried with him.

This is a nice example. Finely cut, sleek as well as smooth; stylistically refined, battered but still with a beautiful appearance. Statue is placed on a base.

Length: 18 cm, including block 20 cm
Weight: 237 grams
Origin: Ghana
Date: ca 1960