Twin Figures (Ere Ibeji)
Yoruba
1900–1975
- Medium
- Wood, glass beads, and thread
- Dimensions
- 1982.1514: 26.7 × 8.9 × 8.3 cm (10 1/2 × 3 1/2 × 3 1/4 in.); 1982.1513 : 26.1 × 8.3 × 7.7 cm (10 1/4 × 3 1/4 × 3 in.)
- Genre
- sculpture
- Museum
- Art Institute of Chicago
Styles
Tags
threadyorubapainting (coating)indigosculpturewood (plant material)twinsafrican Artarts of AfricaCoastal West Africacarvingritual objectsstatuettechildrenincisingpigmentglass beadsbeadwork
About
The Yoruba of Nigeria believe that twins possess special powers and bring good fortune to those who honor them properly. However, babies birthed in multiples have an increased risk of dying during infancy. Figures like these, called ère ìbejì, are memorials to deceased twins. When one twin dies, a single sculpture is commissioned; if both infants die, a sculptor creates two. The figures are ritually washed, dressed, and offered favorite foods. The heads of this pair have been repeatedly bathed with indigo, symbolizing the calming of the spirit’s inner being.
