Circumcision Mask--Painting of an African Mask

Lega Peoples, Democratic Republic of Congo

Bwami masks and figures are symbols of the owner's rank within the Bwami society.The objects represent moral or social values, and are used during initiation rites. The Bwami works of art are often associated with proverbs, and these proverbs in conjunction with dance, poetry and song give wisdom to members of the society. Beauty, knowledge and power are intertwined.

One in a series of eleven paintings inspired by tribal African Masks from museum or private collections.  The mask was in use during the 19th and early 20th centuries.