A LEGA MASK

Estimated Value:

10.000 € - 15.000 €

Schätzpreis:

16.000 €

Description:

Zaire, Lega
H. 26,6 cm (ohne Bart)
Large scale Lega masks, idimu, such as the present lot are rare. According to Biebuyck (1994: 53) they were reserved for members of the highest rank of the bwami association. When used in ritual, idimu masks were worn either on the face or on the back of the head. The angular, highly cubistic style of the offered lot is unusual. Layers of kaolin attest to the age and long ritual use of this mask which has also retained its original beard, luzelu, made of plant fibers
Important Bavarian private collection, acquired Lempertz Brussels, 23 February 1991, lot 139
For another idimu mask of similar scale and state of preservation cf. Sotheby's Paris, December 3, 2009, lot 95 and back cover, for another one cf. Sotheby's Paris, June 17, 2009, lot 50

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