Ibeji Twin

PIECE
Ibeji Twin

REGION
Nigeria

PEOPLE
Yoruba

DATING
Mid-20th century

MATERIALS
Wood

CONDITION
Patina

DESCRIPTION
The Yoruba people are subdivided into several ethnic subgroups, each developing distinct stylistic expressions in the field of art. The Igbomina, established mainly in the northern part of the Yoruba cultural area—present-day Kwara and Osun States in Nigeria—constitute one of these groups. Their Ibeji representations are distinguished by their own characteristics, revealing both their roots in a local sculptural tradition and their openness to regional influences.

A representative example is this male Ibeji statuette, of rustic craftsmanship, marked by large, round eyes that give the figure a striking presence. The body is soberly adorned with a hip bracelet and a necklace, attributes that underline the symbolic and protective importance given to these effigies. This work thus illustrates the way in which Igbomina sculptors combined formal sobriety and expressive power, in the service of a deeply rooted religious and family tradition.

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