Hemba dignitary stool. DR Congo. Wood. - Lot 240

Hemba dignitary stool. DR Congo. Wood. Ceremonial stool carved in dense wood, resting on a seated male anthropomorphic figure, supporting the circular tablet with his shoulders and arms. The figure displays the classic stylistic canons of Hemba art: oval face with regular, hieratic features, half-closed almond-shaped eyes, straight nose, finely hemmed mouth, incised beard and discreet scarification marks. The proportions are balanced, with an elongated torso, powerful limbs and hands firmly placed on the vertical uprights. The reverse reveals an incised geometric design on the back, as well as a small secondary figure carved at the base, reinforcing the symbolic dimension of the whole. Beautiful dark brown patina, lustrous with use, testifying to its age and prolonged ritual handling. A prestigious object associated with authority, social status and ancestral memory, emblematic of Hemba functional statuary, sought-after for the quality of its carving and its strong formal presence. Condition : Good Height : 41,5 cm Diameter : 25 cm Weight : 3 kilos 380 grs