Dance mask - Lega - DR Congo (No reserve price)

03
days
19
hours
21
minutes
59
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
No reserve price
Julien Gauthier
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  € 150 - € 200
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Masque de danse by a Lega artist from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, dating to 2000–2010, 40 cm high and 20 cm wide, carved from wood and wood fibre, from a private collection; restoration required and it is sold without a stand.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

Lega masks are used during the initiation rites of the Bwami society. This society is open to both men and women, with masks whose centers coated in kaolin are carved in the shape of a heart. The passage to a new grade signifies the acquisition of a certain wisdom and individual morality.
The Bwami society organized social and political aspects. There were up to seven levels of initiation, each associated with symbols.
Following their exodus from Uganda during the 17th century, the Lega settled on the west bank of the Lualaba River in the DRC.

Seller's Story

I am a professional seller of African art objects, holding a VAT number.
Translated by Google Translate

Lega masks are used during the initiation rites of the Bwami society. This society is open to both men and women, with masks whose centers coated in kaolin are carved in the shape of a heart. The passage to a new grade signifies the acquisition of a certain wisdom and individual morality.
The Bwami society organized social and political aspects. There were up to seven levels of initiation, each associated with symbols.
Following their exodus from Uganda during the 17th century, the Lega settled on the west bank of the Lualaba River in the DRC.

Seller's Story

I am a professional seller of African art objects, holding a VAT number.
Translated by Google Translate

Details

No. of items
1
Ethnic group/ culture
Lega
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
2000-2010
Material
Wood and wood fiber
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Needs restoration
Title of artwork
Dance mask
Height
40 cm
Width
20 cm
Provenance
Private collection
Sold by
BelgiumVerified
1908
Objects sold
98.83%
Privatetop

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