Ibeji

The Yoruba of Nigeria have one of the world’s highest twin birthrates and revere them as potent spirits called ere ibeji, literally meaning sacred images (ere) born (ibi) as two (eji). Twins who die from low birth weights and the high Nigerian infant mortality rate are honored with carved wood memorial images (Ibejis) that retain their spirit and are accessible to those wishing to connect with them. Extraordinary spirit beings housing the soul of a deceased twin, Ibejis are protected by the Sango the deity of Thunder, draw spiritual energy from the supernatural world and bring wealth, prosperity and fertility to their families.

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    Vintage Carved Ibeji with Necklace, Africa, Nigeria Yoruba #1964)

    Original price was: $475.00.Current price is: $325.00.
    H: 9.625″  W: 3″  D: 3″ | FREE SHIPPING WITHIN CONTINENTAL U.S.!

    This vintage Ibeji  portrays a simple yet strong elegance with his characteristic large conical head, long curved neck and elaborately striated hairstyle. His extremely large round bulging eyes under heavy lids, flaring nose, full lips, and large flat ears reflect the Yoruba idealized form of beauty and exemplify being a correct and upstanding example of tribal values. His prominent genitalia and buttocks and his sturdy vertical stance on wide feet, thick legs and strong rounded shoulders and arms symbolize his strength and fertility. He wears a necklace with traditional Yoruba blue and multi colored beadwork. This vintage statue is finely carved with a smooth patina.

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  • Vintage Ibeji with High Round Hat, Nigeria, Yoruba (1965BHA) SPECIAL PRICE

    $385.00

    Ibeji carvings from Nigeria are idealized folk art conforming to Yoruba artistic and cultural conventions without closely reflecting human likenesses. Symmetrical and restrained with oversized elongated heads where one’s spirit, intelligence and the seat of divine power lie, they often have detailed linear coiffures that can be a third or more of the figure’s body…

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    Vintage Yoruba Ere Ibeji with High Hat, Nigeria #1963

    Original price was: $465.00.Current price is: $325.00.
    H: 7.125″  W: 2.125″  D: 2.25″ | Free Shipping IN CONTINENTAL U.S.!

    This finely carved Ibeji has distinctive Yoruba features. The elongated head is narrow, has full lips, thick eyelids, incised lashes, flat prominent ears, a high stylized coiffure and scarifications. The strong stance with hands on hips, massive legs and arms are visible signs of fertility and power. The elongated head is where one’s spirit, intelligence and the seat of  power lie. This vintage statue is finely carved with a smooth patina.

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    Vintage Yoruba Ere Ibeji with Thick Sandals, Nigeria #1967

    Original price was: $485.00.Current price is: $325.00.
    H: 9.5″  W: 3.25″  D: 3″ | FREE SHIPPING IN CONTINENTAL U.S.!

    This Nigerian Ibeji reflects the distinctive Yoruba artistic and cultural conventions to honor deceased twin(s) with carved images to house their spirits and souls. His oversized elongated head houses his spirit, intelligence and divine power. His distinguishing features are his necklace with triangular pendants and remarkably high thick sandals that make him appear taller. This vintage statue is finely carved with a smooth patina.

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