These are sculptures of twins, called Ibejis by the Yoruba people in Western Africa, who believe that the birth of twins is very lucky. Ibejis are called “children of thunder” and are said to be a gift from Shango, the god of thunder. Since the Yoruba have more twins per family than any other ethnic group, they have a good chance of being lucky! After the birth of twins, small sculptures are carved to represent each one and contain its spirit, so that the good luck will remain with the family. If a twin dies, the sculpture is fed and washed on a regular basis, as if it were a real child.
