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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
Hemba, Luba, Shankadi : Hemba Wooden Ancestral Sculpture of a Man
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Hemba Wooden Ancestral Sculpture of a Man - PF.5481
Origin: Southeastern Congo
Circa: 19
th
Century AD
to 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
9.25" (23.5cm) high
x 2.5" (6.4cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Wood
£4,800.00
Location: UAE
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| Description |
The Hemba people dwelt Northeast of the Luba
tribe, and were once classed as a Luba subgroup.
However, enhanced studies of the tribe have now
recognized them as a distinct people with many
dominant traits both in their artistry and their
culture. The Hemba are famed in their artistry
for their powerful renditions of male ancestor
figures. These wooden masterpieces exude
greater power and authority than their diminutive
size might suggest. One glance at this striking
man and one is undoubtedly in awe of his
presence and might. These ancestral figures
were kept in the chief’s home as a devotional
object to impart power and strength upon both
the chief and his tribesmen.
The powerful stance of this figure is coupled with
beautiful symmetry. This noble and proud statue
of an ancestor exhibits the very distinct qualities
the Hemba so admired. The striking face
impresses us as being benevolent and yet
determined and fiercely adamant. The
handsomely detailed beard and headdress
intensify the nobility of this exalted ancestor.
His stance is firm and solid, as are the
foundations of the earth. His belly is
pronounced and generous, as are the fruits of
the land upon which the Hemba lived. His arms
are brought forward over his pronounced
abdomen, protecting the very wealth and
abundance of his people and land. His feet are
wide, as is his protection over the Hemba people.
This ancestor once ornamented the home of a
tribal chief; today he ornaments our lives with his
noble presence. We too may look to this
ancestor figure for strength, and in his
benevolent face we shall find it.
- (PF.5481)
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