An ivory Lega lginga figure with signs of medicinal use

Congo, early Classical style, 1750-1850 or earlier

H. 17 x W. 6 x D. 6 cm

Provenance:
André Restiau, Belgium
Private Collection, Belgium

Within the corpus of Lega ivories, this work is distinguished by the power of the volumes and the minimalist beauty of the head. The Iginga, also named ginga, ivory statues, are the exclusive and individual property of the Lutumbo Lwa Kindi – the highest-ranking initiates of the Bwami association. Each has a specific name and meaning. Acquired by the initiate at the time of his accession to the supreme rank, it was most often inherited from a deceased relative after being exposed on his grave. According to Biebuyck (in Tervuren, 1995: 381), their major role is to recall "the virtues of the initiates of past generations"; they maintain moral, social, legal, and philosophical rules and norms defended by their predecessors and (finally constitute) sacra, sacred objects, filled with vital force.