Ibeji Sons of Thunder

Edited by Bruno Albertino e Anna Alberghina

The exhibition Ibeji Sons of Thunder explores the fascinating cult of twins in the Yoruba culture of Nigeria. The centrepiece of the exhibition is the sculptures ere ibeji, small wooden representations of deceased twins, created by skilled Yoruba sculptors. These works, rich in meaning, embody the spirit of the twins and have a spiritual function: they protect the life of the surviving twin and restore the lost balance. The cult of twins, considered auspicious, translates into daily care for the statuettes, treated as living beings.

The exhibition includes over 100 sculpturesaccompanied by data sheets, photographs and audiovisuals. The related book, published by Magenesoffers an in-depth view of this cult, with colour images and bilingual texts. The event involves the Municipality of Milanthe Nigerian Consulate and the Nigerian community.