Lega, DRC. Used within the highest ranks (Yananio and Kindi) of the Bwami society to convey moral, social, and spiritual wisdom through proverbs during initiation ceremonies by employing animal sculptures to symbolize human traits. This dynamic wooden zoomorphic carving depicts a stylized leopard or lizard. It features a arched back decorated with incised dot-in-circle motifs, small pointed ears, an elongated snout with a carved mouth, and a short tapering tail. The object exhibits substantial signs of authentic tribal age and ritual handling, highlighted by a rich, deeply oxidized honey-amber patina. Date: early to mid-20th century Dimensions: 9 x 2.5 x 2 Condition: Good. Note: the rear legs have been rebuilt.