An Ibeji couple, Yoruba Nigeria, wearing thick sandals attached to their flat long feet, in an upright position, arms down to their thighs, a thinner bust, around their waist are beaded necklaces of many colors, around their neck they are wearing black and white necklaces and their chest is carved with an amulet, their oval shaped head, which houses compelling features, an opened mouth showing teeth, stout nose and large diamond shaped eyes, scarifications on the cheeks, the top of the head is a delicate coiffure in a conical shape, and is colored in washing blue; both sculptures has been used by ritual and have since gained a beautiful glossy look, signs of us.

“Yoruba peoples have one of the highest incidents of twin births in the world. As a result, twins are regarded as extraordinary beings protected by Sango, the deity of thunder. They are believed to be capable of bestowing immense wealth upon their families or misfortune to those who do not honor them. Powerful spirits in life, twins are honored with carved memorial figures when they die. These figures, known as ere ibeji (literally meaning ere: sacred image; ibi: born; eji: two), remain a point of access to the spirit of the departed individual. The mother provides ritual care to the figures, bathing, dressing, adorning, and feeding them. Such daily handling is responsible for giving their surface its distinctive patina. Ere ibeji invariably represent their subjects with mature adult physiognomies, and are often crowned with elaborate hairdos.”

Source: The MET.

sold

Height: 31 cm / 30,5 cm
Weight: 440 g