spitting image / spit and image
The phrase for a close likeness.
Spitting image is the standard form. It began as an alteration of the older spit and image, and it has since replaced the original, which now sounds dated.
Examples
UseThe new hire is the spitting image of the founder. (the standard form)
AvoidThe new hire is the spit and image of the founder. (the original form now sounds dated)