Lukwakongo Mask, Lega, Drc 02

Old mask presenting an oval-shaped face separated in two by a strongly marked nasal bridge. The mouth is open and the coffee bean eyes are raised. On the sides we can see two circular ears also in relief. This stylized face has been entirely enhanced with white pigment. It is still equipped with a beard of plant fibers. These small masks called “Lukwakongo” are in reality grade masks which were used during initiatory rites.
Wood with patina of use, slight losses on the back, pigment, plant fibers.
H: 14 cm, with the base: 32 cm
Lega people, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Around 1940 / 1950
Provenance: - Ex-Belgian collection
- Collected in situ by Father Baudouin Waterkeyn (1931-2014). He founded the Kakutya mission in Kalima (Maniema province). sold with its base