Lega Idimu mask
Traditional masks without eyes among the Lega
Quai Branly tells us that some African idimu masks have no eyes.
It has been suggested that members of the Bwami used cowries as eyes; this is nevertheless unlikely, because the kaolin, in these examples in particular, shows no trace testifying to the loss of these elements.
Do these rather illustrate the saying: "The head of the house of men, the guardian, has no eyes".
In other words: even if this high-ranking member of the Bwami does not see with his eyes, he sees with his heart and oversees the affairs of the community.
Among the different types of Lega masks (idimu, muminia, lukwakongo, lukungu), this is an infrequent and highly sought-after typology.
02333
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- 20th c.
- Size
- 22 cm (36 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, kaolin
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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Traditional masks without eyes among the Lega
Quai Branly tells us that some African idimu masks have no eyes.
It has been suggested that members of the Bwami used cowries as eyes; this is nevertheless unlikely, because the kaolin, in these examples in particular, shows no trace testifying to the loss of these elements.
Do these rather illustrate the saying: "The head of the house of men, the guardian, has no eyes".
In other words: even if this high-ranking member of the Bwami does not see with his eyes, he sees with his heart and oversees the affairs of the community.
Among the different types of Lega masks (idimu, muminia, lukwakongo, lukungu), this is an infrequent and highly sought-after typology.