Figure anthropomorphe "iginga" ·  R. D. Congo, Lega · ID: 3044995

Description

ivory, base

The anthropomorphic figurines, the presentation and viewing of which constitute the summit of the initiations, mainly occur in two “kindi” rites.

The first rite is called “kabongia masengo”, a very secret ritual held inside the initation house, in the course of which the figurines are oiled and perfumed, while the sacred mirlitons perform secret songs.

During the second rite, called “bele muno”, the “maginga” of the high-ranking “bwami” members are displayed and their meaning explained to the initiates. Following the “kusambala” rite, during which the initates are taken to a forest shack, where they stay for two days and purify themselves until they return to the village as “bwami” members of higher status.

Littérature comparée

Biebuyck, Daniel P., Lega, Brussels 2002, p. 144 ff.

Remarques

This object is subject to CITES. Please note that it can only be sent within the European Union. At the present time export in third countries is prohibited, respectively, export licenses in third countries for objects containing or made of protected materials are only granted under stringent conditions.