Lega Lukungu Mask
The small bone masks among the Lega, a people from Central Africa, are ritual objects associated with the Bwami societal system. These masks, often small and intricately carved, play a significant role in the moral and social teachings of Bwami.
Bwami is a social institution among the Lega, structured into grades or levels of members, each associated with specific teachings. The bone masks are given to initiates as they progress through the different levels of Bwami. Each mask represents a specific grade and is associated with life lessons, moral standards, and responsibilities within the society.
These masks serve as symbols of authority and status within the Lega community. During Bwami rituals, the masks are displayed and manipulated by members of each grade. Their wearing and handling demonstrate the level of understanding and respect for Bwami teachings by the initiate.
The use of bone masks in the context of Bwami illustrates the deep cultural significance of art objects among the Lega. These masks are not merely artistic artifacts but educational and symbolic tools that shape morality and social structure within the Lega community.
02399
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Bone
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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The small bone masks among the Lega, a people from Central Africa, are ritual objects associated with the Bwami societal system. These masks, often small and intricately carved, play a significant role in the moral and social teachings of Bwami.
Bwami is a social institution among the Lega, structured into grades or levels of members, each associated with specific teachings. The bone masks are given to initiates as they progress through the different levels of Bwami. Each mask represents a specific grade and is associated with life lessons, moral standards, and responsibilities within the society.
These masks serve as symbols of authority and status within the Lega community. During Bwami rituals, the masks are displayed and manipulated by members of each grade. Their wearing and handling demonstrate the level of understanding and respect for Bwami teachings by the initiate.
The use of bone masks in the context of Bwami illustrates the deep cultural significance of art objects among the Lega. These masks are not merely artistic artifacts but educational and symbolic tools that shape morality and social structure within the Lega community.