The large Songye figures, called mankishi, serve the well-being of the community (or individual in the case of the smaller figures). In many cases they function specifically as anti-sorcery medicine, which can be appropriated by villagers or chiefs, and serve a benign end. Dunja Hersak (1986, pp.118-169) discusses the functions of these figures and writes that mankish are individualised on the basis of particular feats and accomplishments. Some can receive extensive acclaim far beyond village level, so their power is sought elsewhere: they portray generalised attributes of ancestors whose social roles are vital to the community at large.