In terms of shape and material, this mask is related to the sculpted faces of the ritual universe of the Bembe.

The Bembe did not use masks during the initiation to their bwamè, a society that played an important role in moral, legal, and political issues, but they did have circular masks, made from gourd shells or elephant bone. These were placed on particular ritual and sacred objects — on the skulls of deceased initiates as protection, for example. Other Bembe initiation societies, known to several eastern Lega groups, also used masks within societies such as the elanda.