A figurine stands on top of long-toothed wooden comb
In Hemba tribal art, utility items like hair combs are frequently elevated into masterworks by surmounting them with finely carved ancestor or ceremonial human figures
The squatting posture with hands resting on the cheeks reflects a traditional aesthetic of introspection, dignity, or stylized physical traits specific to the Hemba people
The mid-section joining the figurine and the tines features delicate, incised cross-hatched geometric patterns characteristic of Central African prestige carvings
Mounted on a custom made stand
Tribal art from the Democratic Republic of Congo