Standing male ancestor figure "singiti" ·  D. R. Congo, Hemba · ID: 3032286

Description

wood, partly shiny brown patina, holding a lance and a sickle in his hands, dam., missing parts through insect caused damage (base), cracks;
“singiti” figures depict important persons, such as war lords, clan founders or local chiefs. They provide a literal and symbolic link between past generations and current clan leaders, whose families are entrusted with their ownership and care. They were kept in special ceremonial huts, where they received sacrifices and prayers.

Comparing literature

Neyt, Francois, Approche des Arts Hemba, Villiers-le-Bel 1975, ill. 25