Lele Mask – Wood, Plant fibre – KUBA – Congo

Beautiful old KUBA LELE mask from DR Congo.
The 20,000 Lele people occupy the western region of the KUBA kingdom and live from hunting and agriculture. Lel carvers produced face masks worn at the annual founding celebrations which are nearly flat and have slit eyes surrounded by multiple lines.
Lele masks are rare and this one is a true beauty. The mask is decorated with cauri shells and full raphi. Good condition with traces of wear and tear. Stand is included in this lot!

Provenance: former private collection of the Neterhlands.