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Barnebys HQ
Brahegatan 10
BOX 5038
114 37 Stockholm
All auctions / Ethnographic / A wooden mask - Lega - DR Congo (No reserve price)
Lega Mask - Maniema Region, Democratic Republic of Congo, incl stand. The wooden mask has an elongated, asymmetrically oval shape. Two deeply carved, narrow eye slits are set in light-colored, circularly recessed areas; a short nose and the small, open mouth reduce the face to a few concise features. Incised lines form a geometric motif below the nose, while a grid-like relief accentuates the forehead. Numerous holes along the edge indicate the former attachment of fibers or other additions. The light-colored, kaolin-like surface is enlivened by abrasion, discoloration, and signs of use. The mask belongs to the cultural context of the Lega people in eastern Congo, particularly the Maniema region. Masks and masklets were essential symbols of meaning in the hierarchically structured Bwami society, open to both men and women, and conveyed moral knowledge, social responsibility, and ideals of a good life. Artworks served as visual metaphors, their meanings gleaned through proverbs, actions, and initiatory teachings. Larger wooden masks are often classified as belonging to the idimu type; comparable examples are made of wood, pigment, and kaolin. However, a definitive identification of the present piece as an idimu should be approached with caution without documented ritual context. Literature (selection): Daniel P. Biebuyck: Lega Culture. Berkeley 1973. Elisabeth L. Cameron: Art of the Lega. Los Angeles 2001. Daniel P. Biebuyck: Lega. Brussels 2002. Some of the information and photos are generated by artificial intelligence and is based on published sources from the fields of ethnography, archaeology, and art history documents. All information and photos are protected by copyright. Inv. No. MAZ28132 Informant: Eddy
Estimate:$284.76
To the auctionView all items fromCatawikiorEthnographic
Estimate:
$284.76
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