LEGA, DRC

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The predominance of the esoteric Bwami men’s society has historically influenced much of the art production in Lega culture. Bwami beliefs are pervasive in all aspects of life, shaping individual growth and governing social and legal norms. Masks, heads, and figurines made of wood and ivory are involved in initiatory rites for the society’s highest grades. Their multilayered symbolism is propagated through sayings, theatrical performances, and dances.

This stylized figure, known as kalimbangona, was used in Bwami initiation rites. Kalimbangona figures were powerful instructional vehicles, regarded as physical embodiments of Bwami teachings. They were highly prized objects and were seen as indicators of high social status in Lega communities. A dreamlike and surrealist aura marks this example, with its mask-like head attached directly to a descending fork resembling abstract legs. The large, hollow eyes and minimal features of the face deliver a highly enigmatic impression, and the whole work is enriched by a heavily mottled and textured surface. Two old collection numbers on the underside of the base.