Mask - Lega - DR Congo

The Lega masks originate from the Lega people (also known as Warega) of eastern the Democratic Republic of the Congo and occupy a central place in Bwami society, an initiatory institution governing the social, moral, and religious organization of this community: each mask is a symbolic and didactic support linked to specific levels of the association: the shapes and functions vary according to rank and ritual context.

Carved in wood and often covered with white kaolin, the Legga masks are recognizable by their oval or heart-shaped faces, almond-shaped eyes, and refined features; this whiteness, refreshed by ritual powders, points to the spiritual dimension of the object. They do not represent particular ancestors, but rather moral and philosophical ideals, embodying the values that Bwami seeks to convey: integrity, humility, and social harmony.

Well-defined types — such as lukwakongo (small identification maskettes) or idimu (larger forms associated with high ranks) — are used during initiation rites and secret ceremonies, where their handling, display, or wearing illustrates lessons in ethical conduct.
Prestigious auction houses like Christie’s have put exceptional Lega masks up for sale, highlighting their formal beauty and cultural significance, notably the rare specimens reserved for the higher ranks of Bwami.

Introduction to our expertise firm

Based in Belgium, our appraisal and sales house specializes in African and ethnographic art. A leading seller on Catawiki for over 8 years, we enjoy a solid reputation and a track record of several hundred sales with a customer satisfaction rate close to 100%.

We regularly assist with liquidations, estates, and dispersals of collections, in collaboration with individuals and families in Belgium and neighboring countries. Our approach is designed to be rigorous, transparent and accessible, with sales often offered without a reserve price.

Some pieces that have passed through our hands have joined international private collections and, for some, museum institutions.

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