The Hemba/Luba Peoples

Hemba statuary generally takes as model the standing representation of the male ancestor. This specimen illustrates a little known style, no doubt from the northwest of the region, as related by F. Neyt who has made a study of Hemba styles. He characterizes them by their very original skullcap coiffure, formed by parallel rows of small diamond shaped points, on both sides of a median part consisting of successive small rectangles. The face's jaw is of triangular form underlined by a collar of beard. The high domed forehead is surmounted by a diadem finely carved to the hair roots, continuing into a fan of small sculpted pyramids that are reminiscent of diadem models in metal. The almond eyes, sculpted in relief, join at the center of a depression, to each side of the rectangular bridge of the prismatic nose that overhangs the rectangular, protruding mouth. The rounded arms are separated from the trunk and end in fingers indicating the figure's lower abdomen. This position immediately draws attention to a part of the body, around the bulbous and tattooed navel, which evokes the transmission of life through procreation. The singiti ancestor figures express equilibrium, symmetry and refinement in an infinity of models whose sculptural beauty reveals the highest moral qualities. They are called upon by the chief of the clan who is in charge of them, in a dialogue recalling the valiant deeds of the ancestor in return for his benevolence.

Historically, the Luba Empire is said to have developed from a migration led by the Songye king Nkongolo. Rapidly turning tyrant, he was killed by his nephew Kalala Ilunga. His direct successor flunga Lui, had as brother the famous Tshibinda Ilunga, who was himself founder of the Chokwe Empire. This illustrious family is, in myths, at the origin of kingdoms covering a vast region. In the eighteenth century, the Luba Empire-established in the savannas of Shaba, in the southeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo-was geographically very extensive and included numerous provinces governed by members of the royal lineage. They were subject to attack by the Chokwe and the Yeke at the end of the nineteenth century, attacks which in the end succeeded in dismantling Luba power Thus the Hemba located in the northern region of the Luba Empire, for long came under this yoke as well. They are primarily farmers and hunters, and have kept their cultural and religious identify intact over several centuries. The Hemba chiefs, holders of authority over all members of their clan, are also the officiants in charge of the ancestor cult that relies on the use of these magnfficent hierarchical figures. These works, noted by their meditative appearance, have made the reputation of their art. Certain families of the royal lineage possess a great number of these funerary effigies, which convey the legitimacy and venerability of their origins.