Bwami Mask In Tortoise Shell

Vintage Bwami mask from the Lega people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
This tribal artwork is made from a genuine tortoise shell, a material highly symbolic in Lega culture.

Dimensions: Height 27 cm, Width 24 cm, Depth 7 cm.
Condition: Good condition, as shown in the attached photos.

Within the Bwami society of the Lega, masks like this one—known as lukungu—hold significant meaning during initiation ceremonies.
The tortoise shell, symbol of wisdom and longevity, is highly revered for its associations with prudence and intelligence.

These masks were not worn on the face or body but were displayed during high-level initiations within the Bwami society.
Upon the death of an initiate, the mask was placed on the grave and later inherited by an eligible nephew.
This type of mask was never handled by women.

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