Hemba - DR Congo
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 350 - € 400
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Description from the seller
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Material. Wood
Material. Wood
Dimension. 60 cm
Shipping mode. Colissimo within 24-48h; please open.
Hemba ancestor statue - Democratic Republic of the Congo
This statue is a remarkable piece of Hemba art, a people native to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Hemba culture, this type of figure is called a Singiti. These sculptures are not merely decorative objects; they are powerful representations of the ancestors, venerated to maintain the link between the world of the living and that of the dead.
The face and the hairstyle
Expression of serenity: The face is marked by an expression of inner calm and dignity, typical of the Hemba style. The eyes are half-closed, suggesting an introspective or deeply meditative attitude.
It is sculpted with precision, often adorned with intricate lattice motifs, which indicate the social rank or clan identity of the represented ancestor.
Position of the hands: The hands are gently placed on the chest, at breast level. This gesture is characteristic of Hemba statuary and often symbolizes sadness, mourning, or a mark of respect and deference toward the ancestor.
The figure stands upright, stable and balanced, with the legs slightly bent, giving the statue a natural and human presence.
Abdominal scarifications: The central part of the chest and abdomen bears geometric relief engravings. These are ritual scarifications, essential elements of physical beauty and social identity in Hemba society.
The dark patina of the wood and the slight cracks visible on the surface attest to the piece’s age and the ritual handling it may have undergone over time.
These Singiti figures were kept in family or lineage shrines. The heads of the lineage would address these statues to seek the ancestor’s protection, ask for counsel in case of conflict, or bless the community. The technical mastery in sculpting the details—especially the humanized anatomy and facial features—is what places Hemba art among the most appreciated and refined styles of Central Africa.
It is a piece of great sobriety and deep spiritual power, perfectly embodying the aesthetic ideal of this tradition.
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Material. Wood
Material. Wood
Dimension. 60 cm
Shipping mode. Colissimo within 24-48h; please open.
Hemba ancestor statue - Democratic Republic of the Congo
This statue is a remarkable piece of Hemba art, a people native to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Hemba culture, this type of figure is called a Singiti. These sculptures are not merely decorative objects; they are powerful representations of the ancestors, venerated to maintain the link between the world of the living and that of the dead.
The face and the hairstyle
Expression of serenity: The face is marked by an expression of inner calm and dignity, typical of the Hemba style. The eyes are half-closed, suggesting an introspective or deeply meditative attitude.
It is sculpted with precision, often adorned with intricate lattice motifs, which indicate the social rank or clan identity of the represented ancestor.
Position of the hands: The hands are gently placed on the chest, at breast level. This gesture is characteristic of Hemba statuary and often symbolizes sadness, mourning, or a mark of respect and deference toward the ancestor.
The figure stands upright, stable and balanced, with the legs slightly bent, giving the statue a natural and human presence.
Abdominal scarifications: The central part of the chest and abdomen bears geometric relief engravings. These are ritual scarifications, essential elements of physical beauty and social identity in Hemba society.
The dark patina of the wood and the slight cracks visible on the surface attest to the piece’s age and the ritual handling it may have undergone over time.
These Singiti figures were kept in family or lineage shrines. The heads of the lineage would address these statues to seek the ancestor’s protection, ask for counsel in case of conflict, or bless the community. The technical mastery in sculpting the details—especially the humanized anatomy and facial features—is what places Hemba art among the most appreciated and refined styles of Central Africa.
It is a piece of great sobriety and deep spiritual power, perfectly embodying the aesthetic ideal of this tradition.
Details
Indigenous object name
Hemba
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Height
60 cm
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