Lukwakongo Mask - Lega - DR Congo

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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 € 160 - € 200

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Lukwakongo mask from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lega culture, dating to the late 20th century, 40 cm high, in good condition, made of wood and fiber with kaolin in the eye sockets and a fiber beard, provenance Manuel Morte, Padres Blancos (missionaries).

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Description from the seller

Made of hardwood, decorated with kaolin in the eye sockets and with a fiber beard, this mask is probably of a type that Daniel Biebuyk classified as Nenekisi, which means “lord of the earth.” Like most Lega masks, it was not made to be worn on the face, but was normally hung from the arm or carried in a “medicine bag.”

Provenance: Manuel Morte, Padres Blancos (missionaires)
Argiles collection, Barcelona

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