The Hemba are a Bantu-speaking population of central Africa living in the southeast of the Democratic Republic of the Congo between the Congo river and Lake Tanganyika in the province of Katanga and mainly in the territory of Kongolo. Some are also established in northern Zambia and Tanzania. They are close to the Lubas and Lundas.
Their language is Hemba, a Bantu language spoken by 180,958 people in 20004.
They are above all farmers and hunters.
Hemba art is strongly influenced by that of their neighbors Lubas. Sometimes they are simply objects with a utility vocation, but the large wooden ancestor figures are numerous and remarkable. The character - male - is generally standing, hands on stomach and eyes half closed, and his attitude gives off an impression of assurance and serenity. The facial work is particularly elaborate.
However, the feminine element is very present (caryatid seats, etc.).
Ancestor worship manifests itself mainly through sacrifices and offerings. Vidiye mukulu is the creator god and Shimugabo the Supreme Being. Divination plays an important role in Hemba society.
Their language is Hemba, a Bantu language spoken by 180,958 people in 20004.
They are above all farmers and hunters.
Hemba art is strongly influenced by that of their neighbors Lubas. Sometimes they are simply objects with a utility vocation, but the large wooden ancestor figures are numerous and remarkable. The character - male - is generally standing, hands on stomach and eyes half closed, and his attitude gives off an impression of assurance and serenity. The facial work is particularly elaborate.
However, the feminine element is very present (caryatid seats, etc.).
Ancestor worship manifests itself mainly through sacrifices and offerings. Vidiye mukulu is the creator god and Shimugabo the Supreme Being. Divination plays an important role in Hemba society.
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