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Bwami Initiation Statue, Lega People, First Half of the 20th Century

Offered by: Kulik Selzer

Description
The smooth, dark patina of this small, carefully shaped, male, wooden initiation statue from the first half of the 20th century, by the Lega people of the Democratic Republic of Congo, reflects the physical and moral beauty to which initiates aspire. Members of Lega society, who live in small autonomous villages in the forests, learn morals, skills and wisdom by joining a semi-secret initiatory society known as ‘Bwami’, in which figurines such as this are used alongside ritual, dance, song and proverbs to impart lessons appropriate to the different levels of Bwami to which they belong. These human figurines in particular would be closely connected to a proverb in Lega society, the faces often abstracted and decoratively whitened with the white silicate clay ‘Kaolin’, as this one has been.

Location:
The Gallery 200 Lex New York

More Information

Origin:	Central African Republic
Period:	1900-1919
Condition:	Good.
Styles / Movements:	Tribal, Modern
Incollect Reference #:	786436

Dimensions

W.	3.75 in;	H.	12 in;	D.	3.75 in;
W.	9.53 cm;	H.	30.48 cm;	D.	9.53 cm;

Message from Seller:

Kulik Selzer specializes in curating modern libraries on visual culture and design, as well as sourcing exceptional pieces of modern design and decorative arts. Viewings are available by appointment at our showrooms in London and Rancho Santa Fe. Contact us at 858.269.2422 or email babette@kulikselzer.com.