A small identity or passport mask of the Lega, called ‘Lukwakongo’, from eastern Congo. Every member of the important ‘Bwami society’ owned such an identity mask (for a more detailed explanation see cat. no. 123). Very carefully carved of lightweight, light-coloured wood in perfect Lega style: oval form, with the heart-shaped, concave face, bulging towards the inside, typical of all Lega masks. With coffee bean eyes in relief, small ears at the side, with a long, narrow nose and a round, open mouth. By means of short, fine notches, decorative scars are indicated on the forehead, on the nose and on both cheeks, and both rows of teeth are sketched in the mouth. In the five holes around the chin, a fibrous beard was probably once tied. The recessed facial area of the ‘Lukwakongo’ displays an (equally typical) coating of white kaolin earth. A very charming, perfectly crafted example of the style of the Lega. With only one small fracture to the rear rim of the mask. Otherwise no damage and a good, old usage patina. Remains of an inventory number at the lower rim of the mask on the back.
Height: 12.8 cm; width: 8.5 cm.
First half of the 20th century. (ME)

Provenance:
South African private collection.

Lit.:
‘Die Kunst des schwarzen Afrika’ by Kerchache, Paudrat, Stephan, ill. 659; ‘The Tribal Arts of Africa’ by Jean-Baptiste Bacquart, p. 149, ill. 7.