Lega Bwami Beaded Headdress

A colourful headdress associated with the Bwami society of the Lega of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, assembled from buttons, glass beads, rope and plant fibre. Headdresses of this kind were worn by members of the highest ranks of the society and belonged to the isengo, sacred objects that only initiates could wear. The Bwami was a semi-secret association that governed Lega social organisation and ethics. The piece is in good condition with traces of use.