A Lega face mask, from eastern Congo. Face masks such as this one were only owned by members of the two highest ranks of the Lega’s Bwami society (the ‘kindi’ and ‘yananio’ ranks). Men in these highest ranks of the six ranks used the masks in dances at large Bwami society ceremonies and initiations.
The present ‘idimu’ mask is carved from very lightweight, light-coloured wood in the typical Lega style: oval, with a heart-shaped face portion that cups towards the middle, coffee bean eyes carved in relief, a long, narrow nose with a notched middle line and a small, open mouth. The recessed heart-shaped face was originally covered in a thick coating of white kaolin clay. The mask has two short, notched decorative scars on the left cheek (covered by kaolin on the right-hand side). The mask previously featured a beard made of plant fibres around the chin, attached through three holes. Remains of this affixed beard are still identifiable. The white kaolin on the piece is heavily scuffed as a result of protracted use, and there are two minor holes under the right eye, small old breakages to the edge of the mask on the top and bottom of the reverse, and a good, shiny usage patina on all sides. An old collection number, in white lettering, at the lower rim of the mask on the back.
Height: 25.5 cm; width: c. 14 cm. First half of the 20th century. (ME)

Provenance: South African private collection.

Lit.: ‘L’art des Lega’, catalogue of the Musée du Quai Branly Paris, ill. 7, 10,27, 31, 162, 166, 172, 173, 178; ‘Joyaux Lega’ by Benoit Rousseau, ill. 33, 34.