Mask – Wood – Lega – Congo

Authentic Lega Mask from Zaire or Congo.
Condition: good with a beautiful aged patina due to tribal use.

Lega masks, named Lukwakongo, have a standard design, but there are unique masks with symbolic and ritual meaning, made for special occasions.

The life of the Lega is regulated through the Bwami, to which both men and women belong. There are seven levels for men and four levels for women. Masks were used for initiation to the first two levels of the Bwami society and repainted with Pembe each time they were used or displayed.
Good condition with a wonderful aged patina.

Provenance: Justin Barthels (1934-2021), gallery owner Maastricht. Ex owner of a Salampasu mask DR Congo Estimated 60.000 – 90.000 USD by Sotheby`s. Source: (https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2012/africanoceanic-n08858/lot.189.html)