The Lega people originated in what is today Uganda, and started to migrate from there to their present location in the middle and upper Elila valley and upper Ulindi River Valley of the DRC or Congo in the 16th century. They were fierce warriors, conquering the people whose territory they entered and imposing many of their customs.
Lega masks are used as initiation objects in the Bwami Society. These masks are categorized into five types (which includes material, size and form). They serve as an important aspect as to rank, owner identification and Bwami level.
Unlike many African cultural masks, the masks are not worn over the face. They are most often attached to the body, held in the hand or displayed on fences during initiation ceremonies.
This heart-shaped mask has raffia material attached as a beard… suggesting the depiction of a wise and competent elder. Some traditional polychrome paint has been applied.
This is a unique and rare mask and is suitable for the Serious Collector.