This is a Hemba ancestor figure called Singiti.
These male figures have characteristically short legs, elongated torso, hands resting on navels and an enlarged head with a backward-swept coiffure in the shape of a cross.
Singiti figures depict important persons, such as war lords, local chiefs, or clan founders. They provide a literal and symbolic link between past generations and current clan leaders, whose families are trusted with their ownership and care. Such statues are kept in special ceremonial huts where they receive sacrifices and prayer. This exceptional statue has a serene expression on his face, its rounded face is remarkable for the delicacy of the features. The beard consists of small rectangles. The dominant impression created by the carving is one of idealistic realism.
On customised wooden stand
Exhibited:
- London Tribal Art Show, Mall Galleries
- African Development Forum: Creative Africa, Brunei Gallery
Published:
- Apollo, The International Art Magazine
- Victoria & Albert Museum Magazine, advertisement
Provenance:
Ex- private collection, United Kingdom
For a comparative objects and further information on the subject:
- Neyt, F., 1977, La Grande Statuaire Hemba du Zaire
- Petridis, C., 2008, Art and Power in the Central African Savanna
- LaGamma, A., 2011, Heroic Africans; Legendary Leaders, Iconic Sculptures
David Malík PhD
Founder/Director
