Description
LARGE LEGA BWAMI MASK
For a very similar mask, see Maniema, Marc Léo Félix pages 74 and 75
According to the author, this type of mask seems to come from the north of the Lega region and probably from the Kisi subgroup.
Most likely Muminia, but it is sometimes difficult to differentiate them from Idimu masks, if this was not specified by a member of the Bwami during the acquisition
Muminia masks are rare, they are used during initiation rites to the second grade of the highest level of Bwami (Lutumbo Lwa Yananio)
These are generally fairly large masks (compared to other Lega masks) They are the collective property of the community
Like most Lega objects, they are not the representation of an ancestor or a spirit but are used to transmit philosophical values in scenes illustrating the aphorisms of which they are undisputed specialists
All Lega masks were used as part of the cult of the Bwami, an association that organized the social structure and ensured the stability of the Lega community.
The Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, established in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.
Characteristics:
TYPE OF OBJECT: Mask.
ETHNICAL GROUP: Lega .
ORIGINE: Democratic Republic of Congo.
DRC (ex Belgian Congo, ex Zaïre).
MATÉRIAL: Wood
DIMENSIONS: About 10 3/4 Inches high
CONDITION: Medium / Bad:
Restored
Reserve: $525.00
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Large LEGA Bwami cult wooden Face Mask Congo Drc Warega African Tribal Art 1077
Estimate $600-$700
Starting Price
$260
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