Hemba Standing Male Figure Congo Rohner Collection

The Hemba figure, originating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is a striking manifestation of Hemba artistic brilliance and cultural richness. Carved from wood with meticulous detail, this sculpture showcases elongated proportions, a dignified facial expression with symbolic scarification patterns, and a posture exuding stability and spiritual connection. Adorned with accessories, the Hemba figure holds profound spiritual significance in ancestor worship and serves as a cultural heirloom passed down through generations. Beyond its cultural context, it has garnered global recognition in the art market, becoming a sought-after collector's item displayed in museums worldwide. The Hemba figure stands as a timeless symbol, inviting viewers to appreciate the depth of African artistry and the enduring legacy of the Hemba people.

This figure has a crack on the right arm and pits in several places. See photos for more details.

Provenance: John R. Rohner Collection
Rohner, a museum curator for decades, aimed his practiced eye for authenticity to African art beginning in the early 1980s. His passion for this art only grew through the decades he built his collection––always with an aim for a broad and representative array of pieces. The collection appears in his book, Art Treasures from African Runners (2000, University Press of Colorado). 

Item #252 on pg. 145

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