Seated ancestor figure

19th–first half of 20th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 344
This figure likely served as a conduit to an honored ancestor during times of need. Teke men kept such works in a special area of their homes, adjacent to the hearth. Standing examples were frequently encased in cloth in a manner that parallels the ceremonial wrapping of men’s bodies at death. That thick covering sometimes concealed empowering medicines known as bonga. Although men in Central Africa did not historically wear full facial hair, figures of this type invariably feature carefully modeled lips framed by prominent beards. Beard clippings and spat libations, including kola nut juice, play an important role in the ritual activation of such figures. In some instances, deactivated examples were reconsecrated by a priest and transferred to new owners.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Seated ancestor figure
  • Artist: Bembe-Kongo artist
  • Date: 19th–first half of 20th century
  • Geography: Republic of Congo
  • Culture: Kongo peoples, Bembe group
  • Medium: Wood, ivory
  • Dimensions: H. 6 1/2 x W. 2 1/2 x D. 2 3/4 in. (16.5 x 6.4 x 7 cm)
  • Classification: Wood-Sculpture
  • Credit Line: The Michael C. Rockefeller Memorial Collection, Purchase, Nelson A. Rockefeller Gift, 1967
  • Object Number: 1978.412.543
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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