Mask - Wood - Leka - DR Congo

Leka masks are rare! They were used during the circumcision rituals and were the possession of the "Bukota" - Society which consisted of both women and men. The dotted decoration seen all over the surface refers to the leopard's coat , symbol of strength and determination. Ex. Galerie “ Le Page “ , rue de Le Regence , Bruxelles. Ex. Private collection. Brussels. See: “ 100 Peoples of Zaïre . . . ” M. L. Felix , Brussels , 1987 , p. 72&73 Semi hard wood type. Black, white, and red painting. Smashed circular cavities of different sizes across the entire surface of the face. Edge around with pyrographed attachment holes. Dry patinated inside. A lot of sledging on edges and to the face. Here and there traces of insects and paint flakes. Extremely rare , ethnographically very interesting mask ! ! ! Shipment with track & trace.