Tribe: Fang
Country: Gabon
Material: Wood; Pigment
Size (mask only): 16.5" (42 cm)
Size (on stand): 18" (45.7 cm)
NOTE: Gallery style African art display stand included.

The Ngil masks of the Fang tribe represent a masquerading tradition that waned over sixty years ago. They are worm by members of male Ngil society 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 village after dark, illuminated by flickering torchlight.

They are characterized by elongated features and a heart-shaped face and were thought to have judiciary powers and so were worn when sentences were handed down by society.

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