African mask of initiation to the Bwami, supposed to indicate the acquisition of a certain wisdom and individual morality. A heart-shaped face, surrounded by small cells, is pierced with oblique eyes and a large striated mouth. Clear matte patina. Desication cracks, abrasions. Within the Léga established on the west bank of the Lualaba River, in the DRC, the Bwami society, open to men and women, organized social and political life. There were up to seven levels of initiation, each associated with emblems. The role of chief, kindi, is held by the oldest man in the clan, who must be the highest ranking. As in other forest tribes, men hunt and clear while women cultivate cassava. Social recognition and authority also had to be earned individually: the chief owed his selection to his heart (mutima), good character, intelligence, and irreproachable behavior. During ritual ceremonies, the Idumu masks, of collective property, were presented to the initiates placed on a barrier and surrounded by individual masks of smaller format. br /> Satin patina, kaolin residue. erosions.
180.00 € Possibility of payment in 2x (2x 90.0 €) This item is sold with its certificate of authenticity
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