For the Yoruba people, twins have a special
power and are treated with great respect. If a
twin dies, the mother consults a diviner. He
determines which sculptor should carve the Ibeji
to serve as a substitute for the child. This
consultation acts as the spiritual link between
the work of art and the spirit of the deceased.
Once the figure is carved, the artist activates it
by soaking it in a special solution and rubbing it
with specific oils. The mother treats the Ibeji as if
it were alive; feeding, dressing, and bathing the
image. Its face is washed with soap or sugarcane
fiber then rubbed with a cloth, which can result
in wearing away the features. This delightful Ibeji
is beautifully carved and shows the female “child”
in the full flower of health and happiness. The
necklace, beaded bracelets and especially the
wonderful cowry cloak, are signs of wealth and
status. For this delightful statuette the diviner
must have been inspired in choosing such a
talented sculptor.
- (PF.4698)
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