Standing male figure ·  D. R. Congo, Lega · ID: 3036604

Description

wood, dark brown patina, kaolin, reduced forms, broad shoulders with circular drillings, a heart-shaped facial plane with simplified features, accentuated by kaolin, min. dam., small missing parts, slight traces of abrasion, base;
most works of Lega sculpture (wood, ivory, bone and stone) belong to the “bwami” society and were kept in ritual baskets. They represent mythical beings or depict special proverbs. They are used as teaching implements or aids to memory. There are different types of anthropomorphic figures, embodying various characters. They are used in dance performances, single or in small groups of two or three.

Comparing literature

Cameron, Elisabeth L., Art of the Lega, Los Angeles 2001, p. 142 ff.