Pair of Ibeji (spiritual twins) figures

Title: Pair of Ibeji Figures (Spiritual Twins)
Population of Origin: Yoruba
Geographical Area: Southwestern Nigeria
Date: 20th century (second half)
Material: Carved wood, fabric (ritual tunics), dark pigment/handling patina
Dimensions: Male 25 x 8.5 x 8 cm / Female 24 x 9 x 6 cm
Original Function: In Yoruba tradition, the birth of twins is seen as a sign of blessing but also of potential spiritual imbalance. If one or both twins die, the parents commission one or two ibeji figures, which: represent spiritual receptacles for the deceased twins; they are cared for, clothed, fed, and prayed to as family members; they maintain the family’s spiritual balance, bringing good luck and health.
The fact that the figures are of opposite sexes reflects the Yoruba concept of complementary duality: male and female not as conflicting opposites, but as forces that complement each other and maintain cosmic harmony.