Masque "lukwakongo"
Bernhard Jäger, Frankfurt a. M., Germany
Description
wood, kaolin, plant fibre, base
The social and spiritual life of the Lega is governed by the “bwami” society. Within the association there are five initiation levels, or societies (“bwali”, “kongobulumbu”, “ngandu”, “yananio” and “kindi”), which every man must pass through in order to be considered a fully initiated member of the community in the teachings and traditions of the people.
Each initiation society has its own objects and sculptures “isengo” (pl. “masengo”) that serve to convey the teachings and moral concepts of “bwami”.
This includes the “lukwakongo” ornament used by the “lutumbo lwa yananio” initiates. The “lukwakongo” ornament is considered to be the most significant insignia of the “yananio” rank until it is traded in for an ivory ornament (“lukungu”) of the “kindi” grade.