  The Blue Compact Dwarf (BCD) galaxy SBS 0335--052 is one of the most
metal--deficient galaxies known and one of the best candidates for a young
dwarf galaxy in the process of formation. A VLA HI map reveals an unusual
structure: the neutral gas is distributed in a very extended disk, about 15
times larger than the Holmberg optical diameter of the BCG. There are two peaks
of high density. The eastern peak is close to the position of SBS 0335--052
whereas the western HI peak is associated with a faint compact optical galaxy.
A 6--m telescope spectrum of this object shows Halpha, Hbeta, and [OIII] 5007
emission with a redshift close to that of SBS 0335--052. We suggest that it may
be a young and chemically unevolved dwarf galaxy.
