Hemba Male Ancestor Figure: Symbol of Authority and Continuity

Small Hemba male ancestor figure or Singiti, Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Hemba sculptural tradition is devoted mainly to representation of male ancestors and the style and pose of this example is typical - hands on hips and stomach protruding. Singiti are important symbols of authority and continuity and it is common for men of importance to own several. They are not portraits, but symbolise idealised male attributes even though the male organ is usually not prominent