Fine Lega initiate mask 'idimu'. The front of the mask has a worn surface with traces of white kaolin. The eyes, mouth, and other holes surrounding the mask have been burnt through, rather than drilled. The back of the mask displays a deep and worn patina consistent with age and traditional use, with a series of incised cut marks visible across the upper section.
During major Bwami initiation ceremonies (Kindi), the Idimu mask was suspended from a fence and displayed alongside smaller, individually owned Lukwakongo masks.
Provenance:
Ex: Bryan Reeves, London
Ex Tomi Van Duuren Collection, The Netherlands.
Estimated Period: 1st Half 20th Century
Height: 22 cm (Excluding Stand)
Height: 30 cm (Including Stand)
(Click on Images to Enlarge)