LEGA, Democratic Republic of Congo. Wood, traces of kaolin. Idumu" grade mask depicting a concave human face in the shape of a heart under a rounded forehead. The eyes are bulging and slit, the long straight nose divides the face in two and the mouth is prognathic and notched. The secret initiatory society of 'Bwami' governs the social and political life of the Lega. Masks play a vital role in its rituals. The Idumu is reserved exclusively for the highest-ranking men, the Yananio and Kindi, as symbols of the continuity of a lineage of initiated men. Height: 26 cm. Width: 17.5 cm. Small chips and missing pieces.