Carved Twin figure Ibeji Yoruba People, Nigeria

About the Item

A finely carved significant Yoruba Male Ibeji figure with a tall headdress, expressive eyes, original bead belt and heavy wear and polish from native use. Areas of encrusted camwood powder between arms and around feet. Though the cause of the high rate of twin births among Yoruba women has not been established, the cultural grieving process is well documented. It may be observed in the carving of a figure known as Ere Ibeji, representing the lost child and serving as a ritual point of contact with the deceased's soul. The carving of the Ere Ibeji is commissioned under the guidance of an Ifa diviner, a Babalawo, whom the parents consult in selecting the particular artist who will do the work. The sculpture itself represents a deceased infant but is carved with features and attributes of an adult. The sculptural features of genitalia, pubic hair, wide hips, developed breasts, gender-specific facial scarification and mature coiffures exude erotic sexuality, uncommon for infants. The completed ibeji figure is carved as an adult rather than as the deceased infant, in a mythological form that depicts the concentrated calm of a Yoruba artist. When the carving of the Ere Ibeji is completed, the artist is given a feast and payment as determined by the Orishas. Once the figure is brought to the family dwelling, it is placed on a shrine dedicated to Elegba, hoping that the Orisha or soul, split into two parts when the twins were born, will now again reside in the figure that represents the dead twin. The sculpted figure is treated and cared for as if it were alive. It is rubbed in sacramental oil, washed, fed, clothed, sung to and prayed to. It is kept standing during the day and is laid down at night. Often it will be dressed in the same clothing as the living twin or be decorated in a beaded vest or shown with raised sandals, indicating possible royal connections. They watch the figure as if it was their child; they feed and wash it. It will be constantly rubbed with indigo and redwood powder. The responsibility of caring for the Ibeji is borne by the mother and female family members of subsequent generations. The sculpture is expected to avert evil from the household, strengthen the manifestations of family love, stare down death, illuminate the pathway through the valley of immortality, and bring good fortune to all who treat it with respect and offer it tokens of affection.

Dimensions:

Height: 26 in (66.04 cm)Width: 9 in (22.86 cm)Depth: 8 in (20.32 cm)

Materials and Techniques:

Wood

Place of Origin:

Nigeria

Period:

20th Century

Date of Manufacture:

1920/1930

Condition:

Wear consistent with age and use.