Lega Janus Sakimatwematwe Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo #296

Lega Figure from the Democratic Republic of Congo #296  Magnificent Lega Two-headed Janus Bust known as a Sakimatwematwe with wonderful expressions. Multi-headed Iginga Lega Statue/ Iginga-type are considered the most powerful in the Bwami Society Cult. During Ceremonies, Ingingas are rubbed with palm oil and coated with kaolin clay, which gives them this beautiful patina. Sometimes, certain Village Shamans happen to "grate" them in tiny patches, and use the sawdust and chips in Medicinal Potions to be ingested by a Supplicant or Initiate. When Inginga Figures have several heads, they are called Sakimatwematwe. The poetry inherent in Lega spiritual belief is manifest in all objects attached to the Initiation Rituals of the Bwami Society. The Bwami is a closed Men's Organization with Graded Membership and complex Initiation Rites that impose a high moral and philosophical code. Above all, it teaches co-operation amongst its Members. According to Vogel (1988: 90), Lega "sculptures are