Hemba (Bahemba), Democratic Republic of the Congo

Ancestor figure. The Hemba are primarily subsistence agriculturalists whose main staples include manioc, maize, peanuts, sesame, yams and beans. These crops are supplemented by small scale hunting and fishing done mostly by the men. Some alluvial copper is panned from the river and sold to outside markets. The Hemba practice ancestor worship to justify the present authority and power of the chief of the clan. The veneration of ancestors is an important feature of life in large Hemba families. The ancestor’s figures are traditionally carved with hands placed on either side his stomach; it indicates that he is watching over the clan. The ovoid face is full and round, suggesting interior calm; the hair is dressed with a carved diadem, the beard frames the face.

Material:  wood

Size:  H. 11”, W. 3 ½”, D. 3 ½”

Price:  $ 160 + $27 (S&H)          [#M7H9S229]