Antique Yoruba Tribe Ibeji Twin Figures Hand Carved Wood Statues, Nigeria Africa

Description

This is an antique pair of hand carved, wooden, Yoruba made, Ere Ibeji figures. The word Ibeji means twins. Ibeji are considered sacred children and thought to be the bearers of magic power and might among the Yoruba. The Yoruba people of central Nigeria have an amazingly high rate of twin births. Twins or one of the pair sometimes die prematurely, which is not unusual due to the high child mortality rate in Africa. Sometimes circumstances would call for an Ere Ibeji which is a memorial figure to be carved of the deceased twins or twin. These Ere Ibeji figures are cared for by the mother and they are oiled, dressed, decorated with beads, fed, washed, sung to and otherwise treasured and taken care of. This lavish attention and honoring of the spirit of the departed twin or twins symbolizes the families love for the departed twin or twins and also assures a good future free from tragedy for the other family members. This pair of ibeji twin memorial figures I am offering are decorated with beads and blue indigo residue in the crevices. One figure is a carving of a female twin and the other is a carving of a male twin both are carved as small children having adult attributes. Excellent Condition! The male figure measures 8.59 inches tall. This fine pair of Yoruba ere ibeji twins are very beautiful and would make a fine addition to any African culture collector's treasure trove. I am always happy to combine shipping on multiple items so be sure to check out my ebay store where I have thousands of items to browse. For buyers of multiple items please email me when you are done shopping for your custom made invoice with combined shipping & insurance fees.