Wooden Bwami Kayanda mask from the Lega tribe of DR Congo . In most case, only accomplished teachers in the Bwami Society own Kayamba masks which are easily identified by the horns on top of the mask. Lega masks are used as initiation objects in the Bwami Society. Masks into five types according to material, size, and form: Lukwakongo, Kayamba, Idimu, Muminia, and Lukungu (Biebuyck, 1973: 164). They serve as an important mark of rank, identifying the owners as members of specific Bwami levels (Biebuyck, 1986: 125-26). Unlike many masks in other African cultures, the masks of the Lega are not usually worn over the face, they are attached to the body, held in the hand or simply hung on fences during the initiation ceremonies of the Bwami society.

Provenance: former private collection from Germany.

Object:

Kayamba Mask

Ethnic group:

Lega

Country:

DR Congo

Material:

Wood

Estimated period:

Mid 20th century

Sold with stand:

No

Dimensions:

3719×11 cm

Weight:

700 gram

Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $100.00

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $39.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from The Netherlands

Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Jasper52 specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Jasper52 within 5 days of receiving the item.