250132 - Rare Antique African Mask of the Bukota Society - Lengola People, Congo
Mask of the Bukota Society - Lengola People, N. Eastern D.R.Congo
Mask - Bukota Society
Material: Wood and kaolin
People: Lengola
Country: N. East, D.R.Congo
Dimensions:
35.5 cm high
24.5 cm wide
9.5 cm deep.
This Bukota mask is Very Rare and dated from the begin 20th century and comes with a certificate of authenticity.
Used by members of the Bukota, the second highest level of male initiation society. The Bukota society has functions similar to those of the better documented Bwami society of the Lega people. Men and women can be members, with the wives of male members having free titles. The members exercise political, legal and economic power. They also organize healing and circumcision rituals.
Made of a soft wood. It sheds very small crumbs.
Condition is fair, it has some damage, mainly on the edges, and there are old woodworm marks, as shown in the photos.