Description:

Among the Moba people, each individual is connected to a common ancestor traced through the male line. Moba woodcarvers create wood figures called 'tchitcheri' to represent their ancestors and to place as a shrine offering. A diviner must approve the creation of these figures, indicating the power associated with them.  There are three different types of Moba figures based on size.  The small figures, called Yundu tchitcheri, are used in personal Yundu shrines and are believed to enhance the shrine. They do not represent a specific person or ancestor. The middle-sized figures are called bawoong tchitcheri. These figures are used in household shrines, which are distinct from a figure used specifically for individuals or the community. This figure is used to ensure good health and prosperity. 
The third type of figure is the largest sized called tchitcheri sakab.(up to 90 cm H). These Moba figures are erected into the ground as deep as the waist level of the figure. These figures represent ancient ancestors. Local clans often say that a founding member erected these figures and that most of these carvings have been around for a significant time (Source: Kreamer, Christine. “Moba Shrine Figures.” African Arts, 20:2, 1987)