Yoruba Ibeji or 'Twins' Figure

Rigid, pigeon-chested and impeccably upright, with a ridged cap and a pointed brow

This Ibeji or ‘twins’ figure is Yoruba, from Nigeria, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is carved wood. Among the Yoruba of Nigeria, twins are regarded as one Ibeji, a single soul sharing two bodies, and are generally considered sacred by birth. A small standing figure with a high ridged cap, sharply cut eyes and brows, and a visible grin. Arms hang straight at the sides, with open space between the legs. The dark surface is worn and glossy, standing on a flat base with scored toes. It is 3 inches wide, 3.25 deep and 10.5 high.

Stiff posture, sharp features and very good attendance.