May 5, 2011
May 5, 2011
May 5, 2011
May 5, 2011
May 5, 2011
May 5, 2011

Male Figure

Male Figure

late 1800s-early 1900s

Wood, ceramic or Formica, copper alloy, and iron alloy

Overall: 47.5 x 14.8 x 16.3 cm (18 11/16 x 5 13/16 x 6 7/16 in.)

René and Odette Delenne Collection, Leonard C. Hanna, Jr. Fund 2010.428

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.

See also

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