Cubist Hunde Lega mask African tribal Geometric art Africa repaired

Description

The Hunde are a community, associated with the Lega. This rarely encountered mask was used in association with the Lega dominated Bwami initiations and other Society functions. When not in use they were kept in baskets away from uninitiated eyes. Losses and cracks from use and age.
The Hunde are a small tribe established in the east part of the Condo, just above the Lake Kivu. The capital of the region is Maisi. They are very close to the Lega, the Kanu and the Havu.
Information from previous owner:
“I purchased this and other masks in Kampala, Uganda, during 2004-2006. Although there was scarcely any tribal art collectable value in the craft shops, I was put in touch with a trader who brought pieces across the boarder from the DRC, where the recent conflict was leading to the sale of some older tribal art. At the outset, he visited with a car trunk full of a mix of newer and older pieces, but overtime, he responded to my interest by bringing just a few select older pieces, wrapped in newspaper. OI soon learned that there was a lot of authentic tribal carving coming out of the DRC, but not all of it was attractive! After selecting only pieces that were well designed, carefully carved, and in good condition, I checked each for signs of wear consistent with age and use. Based on this, I am offering for sale only pieces for which I am confident of their authenticity.”
After the sale was concluded, the previous owner added:
“As I was packing the mask, I recalled something that I thought I’d pass on. The mask has a small scorched hole at the top of the head (not large, but you will see it if you look). The runner who brought it to me said he’d bought it from a small village in DRC, and that before they were willing to part wit it, they applied a hot nail to the mask, to drive out the magical power. I have no was of confirming this, but I trust the runner. This was the only time he provided a story like this with the masks, so it was not part of a regular sales pitch to impress.”
Kaolin on wood
10” 7.5 x 3”
All my auctions are starting at .99 and no reserve. I have spent a great deal of money on my collection over the years, we will see if I break even.
I am a private collector, and have acquired too much, my loss is your gain. I am not a professional in the tribal art field, so all items are sold “in the style of” per eBay policies.