Female Twin Memorial Figure (Ere Ibeji) w/ Shango Cowrie Vest - Yorubua - Benin

Description

Female Twin Memorial Figure (Ere Ibeji) with Shango Senior Cowrie-Embroidered Vest (Ewu Owo)
Yoruba
Nigeria/Benin
Materials: Wood, Cowrie Shells, Cotton Cloth
8 ¾” x 5 ½” (apx)
1.3 pounds (apx)
Purchased in Benin in 2008
The Yoruba have one of the highest rates of twin births in the world, but with this comes the increased frequency of infant mortality. Throughout the Yoruba region twins are called powerful spirits, carriers of riches to their parents and misfortune for those who fail to honor them. The death of a twin will often prompt the parents to consult an Ifa divination priest and commission a sculptor to carve an
ere ibeji
. Although the sculptures represent a deceased infant, they are carved with the features of an adult. Once the sculpture is completed, it is taken care of as if it were a child.
This female
ibeji
wears a cowrie shell gown and has an elaborate coiffure in the shape of a cock’s comb with cornrows on the sides of his head and a thick central fringe on top. The almond-shaped eyes, heavy lids, full mouth and nose, reflect the tradition of incorporating adult features.
Ibeji
figures are typically lavished with gifts from the loving parents. The cowrie shell jacket that adorns this figure is both an offering and an expression of the financial good luck that a well-cared-for sculpture can bring to a family. The jacket also refers to Sango, the deity most closely associated with the health of twins.
Condition. As described above
Please look at all pictures which are to be considered part of the description of this item and of its condition
Sold “as is.”
Why selling? Seniors downsizing