Twin Sculpture - Ibeji - Yoruba - Nigeria

Yoruba Ibeji Twin Sculpture. Nigeria. The Ibeji sculptures of the Yoruba people of Nigeria are wooden figures created to honor and house the spirit of a deceased twin, reflecting the Yoruba’s deep spiritual regard for twins, who are believed to bring both blessings and misfortune. The word Ibeji means "born two", and because the Yoruba have one of the highest twin birth rates in the world, these figures hold special cultural importance. Typically the figures are ritually cared for, washed, fed, dressed, and prayed to, so the spirit of the twin continues to protect the family. Far from being simple memorials, Ibeji sculptures embody Yoruba beliefs in the interconnectedness of life, death, and the spiritual realm, while also serving as a striking art form with regional stylistic variations. Lit.: Fausto Polo, Jean David, Catalogue of the Ibeji, 2001, file 670 type A. Fausto Polo, Enzyklopädie der Ibeji, 2008, nos. 376, 377, 378. Hanni Jantzen, Ludwig Bertsch, Doppel-Leben, Ibeji, Zwillingsfiguren der Yoruba, 1993, nos. 46, 47, 50-52, p. 74, 98. Provenance: Maximilian Christiaens, Brussels. Object type: Ibeji Tribe: Yoruba Material: wood Height: 27 cm The condition and potential fragments or signs of wear are documented in detail through presented photographs. Shipment is included following further defined rates. Other delivery or pickup methods can be organised accordingly.

Estimate:$448.09

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