Southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo

Lega

Wood, kaolin, fiber
Early-Mid 20th century
Length: 10.25 in; Width: 6.5 in; Depth: 3 in
Other – Regalia – Headdress

This carved double-face Lega headdress displays two heart-shaped faces with white kaolin paste, joined at the center. There is a patten of circles carved or stamped in the wood in medium relief throughout.  It is associated with the ethical code of Bwami, a semisecret association of Lega men and women, that permeates the moral development of individuals and governs relations with others. Each of these paired faces features slit eyes and a projecting nose.  They are referred to as ancestors and embody complex and multiple meanings.  It is nearly impossible for anyone but a Lega to recognize the specific meanings associated with each of the sculptured forms.  This Lega headdress was field collected showing age and usage.