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Female Twin Figure (ere ibeji)

Yoruba people
Nigeria
Femail Twin Figure (ere ibeji)
Wood, pigment,beads,camwood,patina
Gift of Rod McGalliard
11 ¼ x 3 ¼ x 3 in. (28.6 x 8.3 x 7.6 cm)
1990.14.125

Images of twins, ere ibeji, represent deceased twins. The figure is lovingly cared for as if it were a living infant, to placate the deceased twin, and to keep it from luring its living twin into the spirit world. The figures are fed, clothed, washed, and rubbed with cosmetics. Some are adorned with beaded necklaces, anklets and waist beads. The black beads on this figure recall a woman’s waist beads which emphasize her sensuality, but they are also protection against the power of its twin in the spirit world.