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Male Figure (Singiti)

A work made of wood and pigment.

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  • A work made of wood and pigment.

Date:

Mid 19th-early 20th century

Artist:

Hemba
Kongolo region, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Central Africa

About this artwork

This idealized portrait commemorated and honored the lifetime accomplishments of a deceased male ancestor. With its serene expression, fine beard, high forehead, and elaborate cross-shaped hairstyle, the figure embodies the composure, status, and wisdom of a respected elder. As a spiritual mediator between the living and the dead, it was preserved with other such objects in a shrine where it linked the present ruler with his predecessor and underscored the legitimacy of his authority.

Status

On View, Gallery 137

Department

Arts of Africa

Culture

Hemba

Title

Male Figure (Singiti)

Place

Democratic Republic of the Congo (Object made in)

Date  Dates are not always precisely known, but the Art Institute strives to present this information as consistently and legibly as possible. Dates may be represented as a range that spans decades, centuries, dynasties, or periods and may include qualifiers such as c. (circa) or BCE.

1850–1925

Medium

Wood and pigment

Dimensions

H.: 70.9 cm (27 7/8 in.)

Credit Line

Ada Turnbull Hertle Fund

Reference Number

1972.453

Extended information about this artwork

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.

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