Lovely Lega Mask from Zaire or Congo. Wood with multi-layered patina. Remains of offerings, mica powder, kaolin. Condition: good. Covered in Pembe, white clay, each time the mask is used. Lega masks, named Lukwakongo, have a standard design, but there are unique masks with symbolic and ritual meaning, made for special occasions. The life of the Lega is regulated through the Bwami, to which both men and women belong. There are seven levels for men and four levels for women. Masks were used for initiation to the first two levels of the Bwami society and repainted with Phembe each time they were used or displayed. Provenance: former private collection from Germany. Total length with raphia: 20 cm. Tracking number will be provided.