Unique anthropomorphic representation of the Lega or Warega people, from the central-eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is a Sakimatwematwe statue, which literally means "multiple heads" or "multi-headed". This type of sculpture holds profound meaning within the cultural and ritual context of Lega society; its function is to illustrate moral values to the initiates of the Bwami society. According to a Lega proverb, the representation of two or more heads signifies the need for a global perspective on events and therefore the prudence, wisdom, and impartiality that must result from it. This sculpture teaches caution and consideration in judgments and decisions, showing the idea that all possible paths must be considered before acting. The multiplicity of heads can also represent the complexity of human life and the number of perspectives one must consider.
The sculpture, with a rather angular profile, rests on broad feet and short, sturdy legs. The elongated torso is formed by an equally elongated head that occupies almost its entirety and begins at chest height; the arms, close to the body, bend to support this second head as if it were a protective shield. Both heads have the same characteristics: oval, concave, and pointed. The upper head rests on a broad neck, which stands out due to the bulge in its central part, which could indicate the presence of goiter; the eyes are elongated with a central groove, the nose, which starts directly from the forehead, is rectangular with grooves, the ellipsoidal mouth with a series of cuts is located almost in the chin area. The treatment of the heads is very similar to that of the masks. A peculiarity of this sculpture is that the upper head has a cavity on its back, which could well serve to house some kind of relics.
The Bwami society is the social and educational organization that governs the group's functioning and teaches through artistic objects, proverbs, and rituals, and therefore establishes aesthetic canons. These figures, therefore, are part of the sacred objects of Bwami, used to transmit moral and philosophical values to initiates; their interpretation is taught during initiation ceremonies, where the master guides the initiate through observation and interpretation of the sculptures to understand life lessons.
Lega's sculptures stand out for their originality; they all tend towards abstraction and schematism, as also happens in other neighboring communities. The artist seeks more to suggest than to create a naturalistic composition; it is a somewhat conceptual art.
Condition: Cracks, fissures and minor wear. Good general condition. Shows dark, matte patina, and pigment (kaolin) residue on both faces.
STATUE LEGA SAKIMATWEMATWE
R.D. Congo 20th century
