Lega or Zimba zoomorphic figure, DRC ex Zaire - Lot 19

Lega or Zimba zoomorphic figure, DRC ex Zaire This zoomorphic figure features a whitened, heart-shaped face, reminiscent of Lega masks. However, among the products of their Zimba neighbors, inspired by Luba and Lega traditions, rare simian statuettes were also used in similar Bwami rites. This type of figure refers to a proverb known only to the initiated Particularly satiny dark patina, abrasions and cracks on the head 34 x 10 cm The tribal art of the Lega, Balega or Warega is distinguished by its initiation statuettes, also made of ivory, some of which were kept in a basket destined for the highest Bwami officials of various communities. This type of Iginga (plural Maginga) tribal art statuette belonged to the top brass of the Bwami, a secret society admitting men and their wives, and governing social life. This organization was subdivided into initiatory stages, the highest of which was the Kindi. The statuettes were used as the aspirants were initiated. Each one is a representation with a particular form and meaning, from which a moral or dogma is always derived.