Democratice Republic of Congo
Hemba

Wood, seed pods, seeds
Mid 20th Century
Length: 10 inches
Idiophone – Struck Indirectly – Shaken -Rattle

This female rattle shows an ancestor figure from the Hemba group of what was once Zaire.  Female figures are markedly less common than male versions, as most figures represent the male founders of tribal clans. She is traditionally rendered, with a long torso, short legs and long arms with the hands resting on the abdomen. The head is oversize and serene, with a long nose, arched brows, closed eyes and a pursed mouth.  The rattle consists of three small superimposed seed pods surmounted by this female figure.  The cross hairdo, that can be seen from the back, symbolizes the four directions of the universe and meeting place of spirits. 
The Hemba are an agriculturally-based group living on the banks of the Lualaba River, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. They are arranged into large groups which approximate to clan, each of which has a common ancestor, and is headed by an elder known as the Fuma Mwalo. He is responsible for justice, receives tribute from his subordinates; his power is counterbalanced by secret societies called Bukazanzi (for men) and Bukibilo (for women).