Mask African Mask 1980 Lega Bwami Society Mask

This is a Beautiful Vintage 1980's Carved Wood Lega Mask from the the Democratic Republic of Congo. Among the Lega the Bwami Society presides over the tribes entire social life. Through this communal association known as Bwami, both female and male members participate and strive to advance up through the various ranks of Bwami, a long process which involves challenges as well as proof of knowledge. The ultimate goal for the initiate is to reach the highest level, and become a "Kindi," a position of power, prestige and influence with the village. It is during the various Bwami ceremonies that the charming and popular heart-faced masks are used. The masks are transported in baskets from village to village by high-ranking elders. They wear such masks during important initiation rituals. This mask displays the typical tribal forms of the Lega: made of light-colored hard wood and colored dark brown on the front. The characteristically heart-shaped, concave face is covered in a white layer of kaolin. Further Lega features include: protruding forehead, long nose, slit coffee bean eyes, small mouth, as well as a beard and hair made of plant fibers could be attached. The masks are repainted each time they dance. This is a wonderful Lega mask from the 1980's tha would be a wonderful addition to your collection or home.

COMES ON STAND

Late-20th century

Shows age and Natural Wear

21 Inches Tall on Stand

Mask

15 Inches Tall

7 Inch Wide Mask

11 Inches Wide Fiber to Fiber

3.5 Inches Deep

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