Pair of ancestor figures "singiti"

Description

wood, reddish brown patina, the male figure with beard and staff, the female vested with remains of a fabric loincloth of decayed cotton, an iron ring around the neck, both provided with strong bodies and broad voluminous shoulders, the coiffures widely projecting to the back, slightly dam., missing parts through insect caused damage (base and legs of the male figure), cracks, each mounted on a block-like base, old collection label on the back: “Morigi Lugano No 379” (male) und “Morigi Lugano No 383” (female);
only kings and high dignitaries were allowed to posess ritual objects like the ancestor figures and only selected artists were allowed to carve them. Only the Hemba make standing male ancestor figures. The woman, which has a great political and religious authority for all Luba groups, depicted as partner. The ancestor figures 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.