A Fang Ngil mask of ovoid at the bottom tapering form with a pointed mouth, the elongated, slightly curved nose framed by small circular eyes, high arched, fine eyebrows carved in poker work manner; the surface with white kaolin, partly encrusted, without stand.

The Ngil (sometimes referred to as the gorilla mask) masks were worn by members of a male society of the same name during the initiation of new members and the persecution of wrong-doers. Masqueraders, clad in raffia costumes and attended by helpers, would materialize in the villageafter dark, illuminated by flickering torchlight. Fang masks, such as those worn by itineranttroubadoursand for hunting and punishing sorcerers, are painted white with facial features often outlined in black. Typical are large, elongated masks covered with kaolin and featuring a face that was usually heart-shaped with a long, fine nose. The Ngil society disappeared with the beginning of the colonization of Gabon in the early 1930's.

sold

Height: 43 cm
Weight: 900 g