Standing wood figure (ibeji) on flat round platform. Tapered oval head with flat chin, carved hair, and smooth rounded features, with carved lines on each cheek. Ears and buttocks are pointed. Phallus protrudes from the waist. Rounded stomach with carved triangle decorations. Arms are connected to the body forming an oval. Decorated with beaded red and white belt and beaded brown necklace.

• History Of Use

  Ère Ìbejì is a wooden figure that was carved in honour of a twin who died. Yorubas believe that twins share a soul, so the family was to treat the figure as they would if the twin was still physically present. As a result, the twin was fed, washed and cared for.

---

• Type of Item figure
• Culture Yoruba
• Material wood, paint, fibre, glass, bone
• Measurements height 24.5 cm, width 8.2 cm, depth 7.2 cm (overall)

---

• Previous Owner Alan R. Sawyer, Erika H. Sawyer
• Received from Erika H. Sawyer, Museum of Anthropology Acquisitions Budget

---

• Made in Nigeria

---

• Ownership Date before 2002, before April 16, 2014
• Acquisition Date on April 16, 2014

---

• Item Classes carvings & sculpture
• Condition good
• Accession Number 3055/0002