Lega Petite Family Mask

A little mask, round-eyed and white-faced, with a very serious mouth.

Lega carvers of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, made this petite family mask in wood in the 20th century. Lega masks are commonly associated with the Bwami society, in which they signify rank and moral teaching. This one is compact and oval, in rich reddish brown, with a heart-shaped face painted white around two round eyes. A narrow slit forms the mouth, and X marks and small holes decorate the forehead and edges. Whitened patches have worn away to reveal the wood.

About 6 inches tall, and it sits on a black stand. Small, owlish and slightly unnerving.