Hemba Figure
Democratic Republic of the Congo
A standing male figure constructed as a compact frontal mass organised along a central vertical axis, weight-bearing through base integration, the base continuous with the figure mass.
Description
Carved from a single wood block, the volumes are held close to the central axis, with minimal lateral extension. The head is proportionally large, set on a ringed cylindrical neck, its oval face defined by half-closed eyes, a straight nose, and a slightly parted mouth. A band of geometric scarification frames the jawline and extends along the sides of the face.
The coiffure at the rear is formed as a flat disc, incised with horizontal zigzag registers separated by diagonal dividing bands. The torso is rounded, with a forward-projecting abdomen. The genitalia are rendered as a distinct carved form. Arms are drawn close to the body, the hands placed symmetrically at the lower abdomen. Fingers are individually articulated in low relief, remaining integrated within the overall mass.
The legs are short and solid, set directly beneath the body. The feet are broad, with individually defined toes, integrated into the circular base. A textile wrap is fixed at the waist.
Surface is compact and stable. Patina is retained across the figure, with exposure at projecting elements.
Context
Among the Hemba, figures of this type serve as ancestral representations within lineage-based structures.
Provenance
From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 1985.
Details
- Title
- Hemba Figure
- Culture
- Hemba
- Origin
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Date
- 19th–20th century
- Dimensions
- H 70 cm (27.6 in) · W 23 cm (9.1 in)
- Medium
- Wood; textile
- Provenance
- From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 1985.
- Condition
- Surface stable; exposure at projecting elements; textile wrap present at waist.
