Lega mask, Democratic Republic of Congo - Lot 91

Lot n° 91
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Estimation :
2000 - 2500 EUR
Lega mask, Democratic Republic of Congo - Lot 91
Lega mask, Democratic Republic of Congo Wood, raffia, pigments H. 23 cm - H. 48 cm (with beard) Provenance : French private collection The Bwami governs the Lega people through a unique moral philosophy, an ethic structured in strata and levels of initiation, but in no way codified or synthesized in a philosophical or sacred text. It is through the practice of initiation rituals at the different grades that this practice is integrated and transmitted. It is only through the prism of initiation rites that the principles of action, sociological and legal rules are taught and formulated. Symbolic markers of rank, objects (masks or figurines) are, for initiates and non-initiates alike, charged with mystery and unspeakable power. They embody and fulfill different functions, being alternately: an attribute of proof of the initiate's status, indicating his or her rank, and an object of prestige affirming solidarity. This mask, with its mysterious purity, belongs to the Bitungwa, a term used to designate works made exclusively for the Bwami. Their creation, ownership and control are exclusively reserved for members of the highest and supreme ranks. The small size of the masquettes is matched by their secrecy, so they can be easily carried, transported or concealed. As they were not intended for public display, they were revealed only to initiates. The heart-shaped face is delineated by the subtle nuance of patina and planes, between the rounded brown forehead extending to the arched superciliary arches linked to the fine bridge of the nose, and the rest of the concave face enhanced with white pigments - with each new ritual appearance, the masquettes were once again coated with white clay. His closed, finely incised eyes lend him a very special serenity. His rich raffia beard has been preserved.
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