Ibeji Figure, ere ibeji

Yoruba, Ikire Ife, Nigeria
19th-early 20th c

Provenance: Old American collection, acquired in 2001 from Eric Robertson, 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 worn, with distinct facial features that are naturalistically carved, adding a sense of realism to the figure. Its arms are flexed and terminate on the figure’s hips with oversized hands. The sculpture is also decorated with beaded jewelry. 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.