Figure Ibeji. Yoruba ethnicity, Nigeria

Ibeji figure. Yoruba ethnicity, Nigeria, 19th-early 20th century.
Wood, brass, pigments.
Measurements: 21 cm. height.

The Ibeji, of the Yoruba ethnicity, are sculptures of round bulk or "twin cult". Considered descendants of the thunder god, the twins are, among the Yoruba, special beings that share the soul. When one of them dies, believing that the brother is in danger, an anthropomorphic effigy of substitution is elaborated. If both children die, a couple is commissioned. The figure is made from the guidelines of an officiant of the cult of divination ifa and is given to the family so that the mother dedicates daily attentions to it, as if it were her own child.
The Yoruba are one of the African ethnic groups whose cultural heritage and identity are most recognized. With respect to the Yoruba social structure, we must comment that it is a highly hierarchical society, in a clearly pyramidal form, where the greatest importance falls on the figure of the king and behind him a High Council that determines the social life of the rest of the components of the community. This structure is uncommon in African city-states and the most interesting thing is that the figure of the king himself has power over life and death. His own life is essential to the welfare of the people. If he is satisfied, so are his subjects. He is the life force of the state.
Another interesting aspect about Yoruba handicraft production is that they are perfectly organized in a kind of craftsmen's guilds, in the manner of medieval guilds, where the qualities, skills, prices and other aspects of the common life of the guild are determined. This is important because it shows us a certain organization in terms of motifs and styles, taking into account the workshops that exist and the knowledge that is transmitted from masters to apprentices.