Ibeji

Africa | Nigeria

Ibeji

Nigeria

Ere Ibeji twin figures
Yoruba
Ila Orangun style
Igbomina area

Early 20th century or earlier
Carved wood and pigments
Height: 29.5 cm & 30.5 cm – 11 ½ in. & 12 in.

Provenance
Ex collection Antinori, acquired in 1974 from Ciak Gallery (Rome)
Ex private collection, Belgium

Published: Fine Arts Paris & La Biennale 2022
Ibeji Ex Antinori 29.5 cm & 30.5 cm / Galerie Flak Price on request
The statuettes linked to twin worship, are called ere ibeji in the Yoruba language: ere signifying a sacred image, ibi born and eji a double. Symbols of prestige, wealth and fecundity, ere ibeji figures also guaranteed the perpetuation of future generations. These
effigies of ancestors were an integral part of everyday activities, punctuating the family life of the Yoruba.
Subject to very codified rituals, ere ibeji figures were pampered, with their care including feeding, washing and oiling.
They were considered to be living beings, a reincarnation of ancestor-twins. Representations always showed them at the peak of their strength and power in adulthood.

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