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Rare YELA MBOLE BAMBOLE Lilwa Mask Congo Rdc Zaire Kongo African Tribal Art 1367

Description

Title: Rare YELA MBOLE BAMBOLE Lilwa Mask Congo Rdc Zaire Kongo African Tribal Art 1367

Description: CONGO DRC
YELA
Lilwa Society Mask
The Yela are a people whose rites have remained quite mysterious to us.
They are culturally close to the Mbole, a little better known, with whom they share the cult of Lilwa.
Their art is especially known for the famous "OFIKA", sculptures of tortured persons, masks are rarer
The Lilwa society (which could be compared to the Bwami of the Lega) organized the social structure, ensured the stability of the community and punished those who transgressed (among others well-kept secrets)
Installed in the "central basin", they are neighbors of Kela, Mbole, Jonga and Lengola
Characteristics:
TYPE OF OBJECT: Mask.
ETHNICAL GROUP: Yela
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Democratic Republic Congo
(ex Zaïre, ex Belgian Congo).
MATERIAL: Wood
DIMENSIONS: About 9 1/2 inches high.
CONDITION: Medium/bad
Please have a look on pictures.
Stand display is NOT included

Reserve: $325.00

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Location: This item ships from Belgium

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Rare YELA MBOLE BAMBOLE Lilwa Mask Congo Rdc Zaire Kongo African Tribal Art 1367

Lot 0137

Estimate $400-$500

Bidding starts Mar 24, 2026, 8:00 PM EDT

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$160

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