Anthropomorphic figure of "bwami society"

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Description

wood, kaolin, base

According to Biebuyck, these wooden figures were presented during the “kunanuna masengo” rites of the highest and final “lutumbo lwa kindi” initiation level. They are taken out of the baskets and displayed on the floor. One by one, the sculptures are picked up by the preceptors and danced with.

Each embodies a particular type of character and served to convey the moral codes of conduct of “bwami” society.

For comparable figures with the same gesture as the present, see AHDRC 0026223 and 0026220. Their meaning, or moral message, is unknown to us.

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Comparing literature

Biebuyck, Daniel P., Lega, Brussels 2002, p. 118 ff.

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