Congolese Lega People Initiation Mask: "Bwami"

This is a Congolese Lega People "Bwami" mask. The Bwami Association uses such a mask in initiation ceremonies by the Bwami Association.

The area around the mask's eyes is painted with kaolin. It has plant fiber attached to its chin. Participants in most rites display their masks as a group in conjunction with particular dance movements, which vary depending on the context in which they are used. In some rites, they may be held in the hand, in others they may be fixed to hats or arranged on a miniature palisade.

The function of the Bwami Association is to regulate the social, religious, and political life of the Lega. It conveys ethical principles and establishes social norms. The association teaches proverbs and instruction in the handling of objects endowed with moral and practical significance. Many categories of objects, including masks, are used in connection with the association’s activities.

Wooden masks with heart-shaped, concave faces painted with white pigment are owned, in some areas, by every male member of the most advanced level of the second highest grade of the Bwami Association.

The 100,000 to 250,000 Lega inhabit eastern DRC. They practice a mixed economy involving agriculture, hunting and fishing. Division of labor is gender based and akin to the economic patterns of other tribes living in the forest environment: men hunt and clear new land and women cultivate manioc and other crops.
Source:
http://www.zyama.com/lega/index.htm