Male Figure

late 1800s-early 1900s
Overall: 47.5 x 14.8 x 16.3 cm (18 11/16 x 5 13/16 x 6 7/16 in.)
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Did You Know?

This figure is considered “monumental” as most other types of Beembe figures measure about 15 centimeters tall.

Description

This sculpture played a role in ancestral worship among the Beembe people. Ancestors are held in high regard among the Beembe, and this figure is thought to represent an idealized form of a deceased individual within the ethnic group. The object is one of only two seated male Beembe figures of this size in Western institutions.
Male Figure

Male Figure

late 1800s-early 1900s

Africa, Central Africa, Republic of the Congo, Beembe-style maker

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