Ere ibeji twin figures

Paired with 998.30.12. The Yoruba have a very high rate of twin births. This occurrence and the strong belief in the exceptional power of these extraordinary children gives origin to a very distinctive and intimate art form: the ibeji figures. Because they are believed to be powerful spirits, twins must be taken care of whether alive or dead. When a twin dies, a diviner is consulted for advice on who should carve the memorial image or images at the centre of the twins’ cult. The wooden figures have to be washed, fed and cared for as the living children would be to insure the ibeji protection upon the family.