Ibeji Figure, ere ibeji

Yoruba, Igbomina, Nigeria
19th-early 20th c

Provenance: Jean and Noble Endicott collection, NYC

In Yoruba culture, twins are believed to have special powers, and if one dies, a figure is carved for the spirit to inhabit. These figures, known as Ibeji, are cared for and honored by the surviving family who ritually feeds, bathes, and clothes the figure.

This Ibeji figure is heavily detailed, with distinct facial features and scarring that can be traced to specific family lineages. The facial features, including the scars, are naturalistically carved, adding a sense of realism to the figure. The sculpture is also decorated with beaded jewelry, which adds to its visual appeal. The slightly off-kilter stance of the body gives the figure a sense of movement, making it appear dynamic and full of life. This is a testament to the skill of the artisan who created the figure. The rich patina on the figure is due to heavy handling by the family, which has been caring for it for generations. This patina adds to the figure’s visual appeal, as it changes in color and distribution across the figure.  Traces of cam wood on the body attest to the decades of washing, feeding and caring it received.