African Doll Ibeji Twin Male Figure Yoruba Nigeria Twin Replacement Ibeji Doll

Shipping to United States: $12.00
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This is a Female Yoruba Male Ibeji Adorned Twin Doll a Stylized Coiffure and a Cowrie Shell that comes from the Yoruba Tribal People of Nigeria. Among the Yoruba, who have the highest rate of twins in the world, the arrival of twins is seen as both a blessing and an omen because of the high mortality rate. If a twin dies, an image dedicated to Ibeji, the deity of twins, is carved to serve as the earthly abode for the spirit of the deceased. Among the Yoruba, twins have special powers, much like the orisha, and are to be treated with respect throughout their lives. If a twin dies, the mother seeks a diviner's advice about which carver should make the ere ibeji to stand in for the dead child. 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 ere 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 and indigo or laundry bluing. After a period of time, the facial features may be rubbed away. The responsibility of caring for the ibeji is borne by the mother and female family members of subsequent generations. The sculpture is expected to avert evil from the household, strengthen the manifestations of
family love, stare down death, illuminate the pathway through the valley of immortality, and bring good fortune to all who treat it with respect and offer it tokens of affection. It is kept standing during the day, and is laid down at night, and it will be dressed in the same clothing as the living twin, or be decorated in a beaded cowrie shell vest. This doll would be a wonderful addition to your collection or home.

Late 20th-Century

Shows age, discoloration and loss of patina, has a small crack on face, but overall in good condition.

9 1/4" tall

5" wide

3 1/2" deep

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