Hemba (Bahemba), Democratic Republic of the Congo

Ancestor figurine. In southeast DRC, the Hemba people numbering 80,000 inhabit vast plains surrounded by high hills and bordered by streams, rocks, and marshes. Farmers and hunters, the Hemba practice ancestor  worship to justify the present authority and power of the chief of the clan.  Among the Hemba, sculptured male bearded figures posed standing with their hands placed on the abdomen or at the sides represent distinguished ancestors. They are considered to be portraits of specific individuals and were kept in the homes of the principal Hemba families as genealogical references. The hereditary chief of each clan is the keeper of the ancestor figures. As celebrant of the ancestor cult, the clan’s chief, surrounded by his people, communicates with the ancestors, recalling his great deeds and summoning his good will. He renders justice and his status as clan head means that he has the privilege of receiving numerous gifts. This figurine exhibits symmetry and balance.

Material: wood

Size:  H. 10 ½”, W. 3”, D. 4”

Price:  $160 + $18 (S&H)                    [#M1H9S967]