Hemba (Bahemba), Democratic Republic of the Congo

Ancestor figure.  The Hemba people numbering 80,000 inhabit vast plains surrounded by high hills and bordered by streams, rocks, and marshes in southeast DRC. Farmers and hunters, the Hemba practice ancestor worship. 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. 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 ancestor figure has a serene expression on his face.

Material:  wood, beads

Size:  H. 28”, W. 6”, D. 5”

Price:  $ 260 + $43 (S&H)          [#M6H9S300]