LEGA, Democratic Republic of the Congo - Lot 151

LEGA, Democratic Republic of the Congo Grade mask featuring a stylized face, outlined by a long nose. The lower forehead is embellished with an incised design of criss-cross motifs. The mouth, also decorated with incised linear motifs, symbolizes a sewn mouth, intended to remind initiates of the secrets they must keep, or the fact that they can only express themselves within the Bwami initiation society. Wood, honey patina, signs of use, significant traces of kaolin, old patina of use Height Height : 25 cm This mask was used as part of the Bwami initiation society of the Lega people. This society governed the moral, social and spiritual values of the community. Rank masks, reserved for advanced members, were used to transmit esoteric teachings and mark initiates' progression through the hierarchy. Ritually applied kaolin reinforces their symbolic power.