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Unknown"Messenger Mask Lega - Zaire, " Wood & Clay created in Africa circa 1925circa 1925
circa 1925
About the Item
This mask, made out of wood and clay, was created by an unknown artist from the Lega tribe in Zaire. This mask was to be worn on the chest.
12 1/2" x 8 3/8" x 1 1/4" mask
Bwami masks and figures are symbols of the owner's rank within the Bwami society. The objects represent moral or social values, and are used during initiation rites. The Bwami works of art are often associated with proverbs, and these proverbs in conjunction with dance, poetry and song give wisdom to members of the society. Beauty, knowledge and power are intertwined.
Some artwork can only be seen, handled or owned by the highest grades of the society. The objects are typically small and simple in form, and have a striking patina that derives from being handled or worn on the body. Ivory objects usually have russet or yellow patinas. The masks are fairly standardized, although the most important masks with special ritual use or symbolic meaning may have distinctive design. A typical mask will have a concave heart-shaped face. The forehead protrudes slightly, the nose is narrow, eyes are slits and the mouth is slightly open. Every time a mask is used it is rubbed with white clay, over time acquiring a white patina.
- Creation Year:circa 1925
- Dimensions:Height: 12.5 in (31.75 cm)Width: 8.375 in (21.28 cm)Depth: 1.25 in (3.18 cm)
- Medium:
- Period:
- Condition:
- Gallery Location:Milwaukee, WI
- Reference Number:
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