
Description
RARE KAYAMBA MASK
KWAME LEGA
Beautiful mask, very expressive
The Kayamba Mask is easily recognizable by the two horns on the top. It is a relatively rare mask, used by preceptors during the initiation rites of young boys for the passage to adulthood
The Kwame
The Kwame (Bakwame) are considered by some as a sub-tribe of the Lega, by others as a neighboring tribe sharing with them cultual and stylistic characteristics. This people is divided into 12 independent groups, only 8 of them practicing the cult of the Bwami.
Biebuyck writes that the Bakwame are the remarkable synthesis of the influences of the Lega, Kumu, Songola, Nyanga and Konjo (Biebuyck, The Arts of Zaire, 1986, page 229)
They live in the province of Maniema, in the Territory of Punia and in the province of South Kivu, in the territory of Shabunda.
Characteristics:
TYPE OF OBJECT: Mask.
ETHNICAL GROUP: Lega- Kwame
ORIGINE: Democratic Republic of Congo.
DRC (ex Belgian Congo, ex Zaïre).
MATERIAL: Wood, vegetal fibers
DIMENSIONS: About 11 1/2 Inches high (29 cm)
17 3/4 with the beard (45 cm)
CONDITION: Medium
Reserve: $1,500.00
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Rare LEGA KWAME Kayamba Mask Bwami Cult Congo Drc African Tribal Art 1131
Estimate $2,000-$2,500
Starting Price
$750
LiveAuctioneers Purchase Protection
Vetted auction houses
Secure, online bidding
Returns guaranteed for misrepresented listings
Dedicated support when you need it
Primitive Passions: Exclusive Tribal Art Sale
Feb 26, 2026 11:00 AM ESTNew York, NY, United States
TOP

























