Lega Mask, Lukungu (Skull Ornament), Bwami Society

A Lukungu (Skull Ornament) wooden mask with typical concave heart-shaped face and incised circular decoration.

In the Bwami doctrine, the masks refer to ancestors and are passed from one generation of initiates to the next as symbols of continuity. For the Lega people, physical beauty and moral excellence are inseparable. The dotted-circle motifs on many Lega works represent body markings, which enhance both the carvings and the characters they depict. The smooth polished surfaces of these sculptures allude to the refined and perfected nature of the Bwami initiate.

The lukungu ornament is used by kindi initiates. Passed from generation to generation, the lukungu ornament is handed down from father to his nephew (the Lega is a matrilineal line of decent). As such it is believed to represent the bond and continuity between father and son. The lukungu ornament is considered to be the most significant insignia of all Bwami grades and is the final category of objects within the society. Unlike other Bwami ornaments, the lukungu ornament is never worn on the face or body. It is instead only held (or placed on a fence) during kindi initiations. At death it is placed on the previous owner's grave after which it is inherited by a nephew.

Date: Early 20th century
Origin: Lega people, Warega, Bwami society
Country: Democratic Republic of Congo
Material: Wood with warm orange-brown patina from ibonga (ceremonial oiling)
Height: 23,5 cms
Width: 18 cms