Idumu Mask – Wood – Lega- Congo

Authentic Lega Mask from Zaire or Congo.
Wood with multi-layered patina. Remains of offerings, mica powder, kaolin.
Condition: good with a beautiful aged patina due to tribal use.

Covered in Pembe, white clay, each time the mask is used, resulting in a beautiful patina.

Masks are among the initiation objects displayed on the grave before being passed to new owners. They are usually  passed from an uncle to a nephew. Idumu masks are unusual because they belong to a group of people rather than one individual. During a major performance an idumu  mask is hung on a fence among other smaller lukwakongo masks (these are owned by specific persons).

Provenance: former private collection from the Netherlands. Including custom made stand!