Lega Carving with 3 Faces on Custom Stand Congo Rohner Collection

Lega carving with 3 faces on a custom base. Almost the entire opus of Lega art is used ceremonially by and for members of the "Bwami" society, which regulates nearly all aspects of Lega social and ritual life. Though limited to masks and small figures made from wood or ivory, the ability of the Lega artist to create an enchanting visual experience within a strict artistic tradition is legendary. This skill is even more surprising since the Lega do not consider the "beauty" of an object to be relevant. Only its success in Bwami counts, with the definition of "success" being rather mystical. The masks are usually rather flat, with narrow, coffee bean-shaped eyes, a long, flat nose, and a partially opened mouth. The overall effect is one of a naive charm, mixed with surprise. The Lega began their migration into the Congo, from what is now Uganda, in the 16th century. They were fierce warriors, and they assimilated many cultures along the way. Thus, much of Congo culture that exists to the east of the Luba will show Lega influence in their societal practices, as well as in the styles of art they produce. The civil chaos in the eastern Congo during recent years has not yet significantly affected the Lega, and they continue to be a powerful force in the region. Provenance: John R. Rohner Collection Rohner, a museum curator for decades, aimed his practiced eye for authenticity to African art beginning in the early 1980s. His passion for this art only grew through the decades he built his collection––always with an aim for a broad and representative array of pieces. The collection appears in his book, Art Treasures from African Runners (2000, University Press of Colorado). Item #753 on pg. 264 Large crack through the side. Height (In): 8.5 Width (In): 3.0 Depth (In): 3.5 157309