Matched Pair of Nigerian Ibeji Wood Twin Figures

West Africa, Nigeria, Yoruba, ca. mid 20th century CE. A pair of hand-carved wooden ibeji twin figures, both nude, one make and the other female, with glass bead anklets. The figures have similar faces with ritual scars / tattoos; the female has the only remaining iron nail pupil, and the male has a pectoral decoration. The Yoruba are known for their carved sculptures of deceased male and female twin figures, known as Ibeji. The Yoruba have one of the highest number of twin births in the world, and traditions have developed accordingly. When one twin dies, whether in childhood or adulthood, the surviving twin is thought to possess only half a soul. To provide a resting place for the deceased's soul, Ibeji figures are created by a priest. These effigies are traditionally honored with prayers, offerings, and libations to ensure the deceased twin's peace and happiness in the afterlife. Size: 3.5" W x 11.75" H (8.9 cm x 29.8 cm) Item # 189384

Estimate:£74.75

View all items fromArtemis Fine ArtsorEthnographical