"Bwami" society mask "idimu"

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Description

wood, collection number “8342”, base

Probably a mask of the “idimu”- type (small residues of the always white painting still visible). Believed to represent the head of a lineage group, the “idimu” ornament is kept by the most respected, oldest member of the “yananio” and “kindi” initiation level.

During major community performances, the “idimu” ornament is hung from a fence, surrounded by the smaller, personally owned “lukwakongo” masks, which all together represent the community of the “bwami” society.

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Comparing literature

Cameron, Elisabeth L., Art of the Lega, Los Angeles 2001, p. 194 ff.

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