Mask - Lega - DR Congo (No reserve price)
04
days
14
hours
22
minutes
04
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Starting bid
€ 1
No reserve price
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
With almost a decade of experience bridging science, museum curation, and traditional blacksmithing, Julien has developed a unique expertise in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 200 - € 250
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Lega mask from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, carved wood with an antique dark patina, 21 cm high, 1 cm wide, 1 cm deep, weight 1 g, provenance private collection, associated with Bwami initiation rites.
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Description from the seller
Lega mask – Democratic Republic of the Congo
Carved wood, antique patina
This Lega mask stands out for its purified oval shape and a deliberately inward expression. The face is structured by a long, narrow nose, almond-shaped, half-closed eyes, and a discreetly slightly open mouth, giving the whole a strong formal sobriety. The side perforations attest to its method of fixation during ritual use.
The surface shows an old, dark brown patina, punctuated by areas of wear and polishing related to repeated handling.
The visible tool marks and the natural weathering of the wood reinforce the object's authenticity and antiquity.
Among the Lega, this type of mask is closely linked to the Bwami initiatory society, where it served as a medium for moral and philosophical teaching. These masks were not intended for a spectacular performance, but to transmit fundamental values such as wisdom, restraint, and balance. Their abstraction and economy of means fully contribute to their symbolic power.
With its sober style, its aged patina, and its ritual significance, this mask represents a significant example of the Lega tradition, particularly sought after for the depth of its expression and its cultural importance.
Introduction to our expertise firm
Based in Belgium, our appraisal and sales house has been assisting collectors and families for many years, with a simple approach: seriousness, transparency and service. We enjoy a solid reputation among tribal art enthusiasts and are among the leading sellers on Catawiki, where we count ourselves among the oldest merchants (more than 8 years).
We have specialized in and overseen the liquidation and dispersal of dozens of family collections, and sold thousands of objects in partnership with private individuals, notaries, estates, inheritances, and collection liquidations. Our track record speaks for itself: several hundred evaluations approaching 100% positive feedback.
Pieces that have passed through our hands are today in prestigious collections and, for some, have joined museum institutions. We regularly offer no-reserve auctions.
Express shipping within 24 hours, secure packaging, insurance and tracking.
Contact 7 days a week, advice and documentation on request.
Lega mask – Democratic Republic of the Congo
Carved wood, antique patina
This Lega mask stands out for its purified oval shape and a deliberately inward expression. The face is structured by a long, narrow nose, almond-shaped, half-closed eyes, and a discreetly slightly open mouth, giving the whole a strong formal sobriety. The side perforations attest to its method of fixation during ritual use.
The surface shows an old, dark brown patina, punctuated by areas of wear and polishing related to repeated handling.
The visible tool marks and the natural weathering of the wood reinforce the object's authenticity and antiquity.
Among the Lega, this type of mask is closely linked to the Bwami initiatory society, where it served as a medium for moral and philosophical teaching. These masks were not intended for a spectacular performance, but to transmit fundamental values such as wisdom, restraint, and balance. Their abstraction and economy of means fully contribute to their symbolic power.
With its sober style, its aged patina, and its ritual significance, this mask represents a significant example of the Lega tradition, particularly sought after for the depth of its expression and its cultural importance.
Introduction to our expertise firm
Based in Belgium, our appraisal and sales house has been assisting collectors and families for many years, with a simple approach: seriousness, transparency and service. We enjoy a solid reputation among tribal art enthusiasts and are among the leading sellers on Catawiki, where we count ourselves among the oldest merchants (more than 8 years).
We have specialized in and overseen the liquidation and dispersal of dozens of family collections, and sold thousands of objects in partnership with private individuals, notaries, estates, inheritances, and collection liquidations. Our track record speaks for itself: several hundred evaluations approaching 100% positive feedback.
Pieces that have passed through our hands are today in prestigious collections and, for some, have joined museum institutions. We regularly offer no-reserve auctions.
Express shipping within 24 hours, secure packaging, insurance and tracking.
Contact 7 days a week, advice and documentation on request.
Details
Indigenous object name
Mask
Ethnic group/ culture
Lega
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Mid 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Height
21 cm
Width
1 cm
Depth
1 cm
Weight
1 g
Provenance
Private collection
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