Description:

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Luba & Lega peoples, ca. early to late 20th century CE. This collection features 4 small and miniature wooden masks from various African cultures. The largest mask is adorned with glass beads and attached raffia, while a smaller raffia-adorned mask originates from the Luba culture and represents a kifwebe mask, traditionally associated with spiritual and societal roles. Two elongated, ovoid masks with traces of white pigment are from the Lega culture, both retaining remnants of a raffia beard along the chin. The larger, darker mask has an antique appearance and is the oldest in the group, while the other two appear more contemporary. In Lega tradition, masks symbolize their owner's rank within the Bwami society, a hierarchical and initiatory organization open to both men and women. Size of largest raffia mask: 13" L x 6" W (33 cm x 15.2 cm); larger Lega mask: 8.5" L x 4.75" W (21.6 cm x 12.1 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection

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#190294

    Condition:
  • Some flaking to raffia when handled. Loss to the top edge of the smaller Lega mask, and losses to white pigment. Loses to tassels on the other Lega mask and old losses and chips to the verso of wood. Luba kifwebe mask is in good condition with some minor abrasions.

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January 23, 2025 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
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$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
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