Lega Mask – Congo

Lega Mask – Congo In the forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo, art is created primarily for semi-secret associations of men and women, such as the Bwami society of the Lega people. Bwami's teachings permeate all aspects of life, guiding the moral development of the individual and governing relationships with others. The Bwami doctrine is represented by wooden and ivory masks, heads and small figures, all of which play an essential role during initiation into the highest classes of society. Although simple in form, these sculpted objects embody complex and multiple meanings, elaborated through proverbs, sketches and dances. Masks refer to ancestors and are passed from one generation of initiates to the next as symbols of continuity. REGION: Congo MATERIAL: Wood PERIOD: First quarter of the 20th century DIMENSION: 24 x 13.5 cm (Base)