Lengola mask from Maniema with fist, DRC ex Zaire - Lot 200

Lengola mask from Maniema with fist, DRC ex Zaire This African mask with fist is probably the work of the Lengola, originally from Uganda and living near the Metoko in the center of the Congolese basin between the Lomami and Lualaba rivers, a primary forest people dedicated to the worship of a single God, a monotheism rare in Africa. This type of mask, characteristic of the Maniema region, was brandished by the dancer during ceremonies. In addition to the Lilwa society, their Bukota society, which includes both men and women, is a version of the Bwami association of the Lega. Their sculptures, subject to the influence of neighboring Mbole, Lega and Binja, played a role in initiation, funeral and circumcision ceremonies, and were then placed on the graves of high-grade initiates. Each of these figures had an educational name and meaning, as in Lega traditions. The mythical ancestor Suway appears at the close of the funeral in the form of the sculpted figure Ubanga Nyama . 36 x 14 cm Height on base: 43 cm