[Untitled]
Item
Accession Number
2024.11.
Subject
Figure|Ritual|West Africa
Country
Nigeria
Date
Early 20th Century
Medium
Patinated wood
Format
H x W x D: 10 in x 3 1/4 in x 4 1/2 in (25.4 cm x 8.255 cm x 11.43 cm)
Description
The male and female figures from the Yoruba community commemorate deceased twins. The coiffures signify their social status, turned blue by repeatedly dipping the top of the head in indigo. The indigo symbolizes the calming of the deceased's inner spirit. The small wooden figures are decorated in elaborate scarification patterns, sharing common patterns on the face and by the navel. The figures are bathed, dressed, and offered food as part of the ritualistic commemoration practices.
Type
Twin Figures
Conforms To
Yoruba