Anthropomorphic mask - Lega culture, Democratic Republic of Congo - First half of the 20th century

Anthropomorphic mask
Lega culture, Democratic Republic of Congo
First half of the 20th century
Wood and pigments
Height: 17.5 cm; Width: 11.5 cm

Small anthropomorphic mask made of single-piece wood, in the shape of which the finely drawn eyebrow arches meet to form a long, slender nasal ridge – thus forming a stylized heart.
Its coffee bean-shaped eyes are cut out and enhanced with white kaolin pigments. Its small mouth is also cut out in a horizontal and irregular slit.

This mask was used in the Bwani initiation rite.

It has an old collector's label on the reverse.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

Ref.: 6980