Initiation animal Mugugundu - Lega - DR Congo

Mugugundu initiation animal – Lega – DRC – rare zoomorphic sculpture, beautiful patina

Rare zoomorphic sculpture called “initiation animal” Mugugundu, a sought-after typology for its sobriety and formal impact. The piece presents itself as an elongated quadruped, with a streamlined body and a long tail, featuring an elongated head and a slightly open mouth that gives it a lively expression. The vocabulary is deliberately pared down: taut volumes, continuous lines, legs carved into blocky forms, everything designed for visual efficiency.

This type of object is traditionally associated with initiation contexts: it functions as a sign-figure, carrying a teaching and a symbolic presence, rather than a naturalistic representation. Its simplicity is precisely its strength: it conveys an ‘essential’ aesthetic, highly appreciated by collectors of Central Africa.

The patina is aged, soft, and nuanced, with lovely wear and a satin surface from handling, revealing the warmth of the wood. A rare, elegant piece, ideal in a high-end display case or for a collection focused on initiation arts and animal forms.

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We have specialized in valuing and ensuring the liquidation and dispersion of dozens of family collections, and have sold thousands of objects in partnership with private individuals, notaries, estates, inheritances, and collection cessations. Our track record speaks for itself: hundreds of evaluations nearing 100% positive feedback, an indicator that is worth more than any discussion of our commitment and reliability.

Pieces that have passed through our hands are today in prestigious collections and, for some, have joined museum institutions — a guarantee of the quality and consistency of our selection throughout the year. We regularly offer no-reserve sales.

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