White-faced mask. LEGA/KONGO, 20th c.,

White-faced mask. LEGA/KONGO, 20th c., Among the Lega there were different social ranks. The present mask corresponds to the tribal form of the Lega, as worn by men of the higher ranks during important initiation rituals: made of light-colored hardwood, stained dark brown on the front. The characteristic heart-shaped concave face is covered with a white kaolin layer. Other lega features include: protruding forehead, long nose, slit coffee bean eyes, small mouth, and holes also around the chin where a 'beard' of plant fibers was originally attached. Made from one piece, nice age patina, dam.