1974.SC.41 Standing male ancestor figure (_singiti_)

The Hemba peoples memorialized distinguished ancestors (e.g. chiefs, warriors, and heads of lineages) in sculpted wooden figures (sing. singiti; pl. lusingiti) that served as vessels for their spirits. A visual genealogical record, the figures were cared for by a designated member of the lineage, who arranged them in the order in which they lived. The caretaker periodically honored the singiti with animal sacrifices; in return, the ancestors protected their descendants.

While sculpted lusingiti are idealized images, each represents a specific Hemba ancestor whose spirit is contained therein. They are portrayed as bearded males standing erect on a circular base with shoulders square, arms held close to the body, and hands resting on either side of a protruding abdomen with a herniated navel. With eyes closed, the ancestor figure displays a serene expression. The crossed lobes of the cruciform hairstyle, which are arranged over a square of woven raffia, evoke the four cardinal directions of the universe as well as the crossroads where the realm of the living and dead intersect.

This singiti is adorned with a necklace of expensive imported blue glass beads, which, like cowrie shells, were a form of currency before the introduction of coins and paper money. He was originally clothed in a woven raffia wrapper that was draped over the strip of leather that remains.

n.d.: Schindler Collection, New York

Max Hartmann, Standing male ancestor figure,  44997612: UMO

R. Walker, Standing male ancestor figure (singiti), 12937182: UMO

Apply to objects where number equals 1974.Sc.41