Bwami society headdress

Within Bwami, the many-graded initiation society that governed Lega civic and moral life, headdresses gave visible form to an individual’s social and ethical standing within the community and inculcated shared values through the choice of materials. The shape and materials of this prestigious, crested example draw from the elephant ear. The elephant stood for quiet strength, patience, and measured leadership, qualities expected of those who progressed to Bwami’s highest ranks. The shells framing either side of the crest evoke waxing moon, reinforcing ideas of personal growth and cyclical renewal. The dramatic profile and valued materials effectively proclaimed the seniority and erudition of its wearer.