African art > African mask, tribal art, primitive art > Fang mask

Fang mask (N° 22518)

Intended to unmask sorcerers, this type of mask was carved on the eve of ceremonies. The austere physiognomy was meant to counter occult powers. Accompanied by words, gestures, dances and sacrifices, it also intervened during initiations out of sight of the profane. Velvety matte patina. Erosions, chips.
The appearance of these masks generally coated with kaolin (the white color evokes the power of the ancestors), in the middle of the night, could cause terror. This type of mask was used by the ngil male society which no longer exists today. This secret society was in charge of initiations and fought against witchcraft. The ngil was a rite of purifying fire symbolized by the gorilla. Guarantor of peace, he also fixed the seasons, the location where the villages were to be established, and the conditions for the exploitation of agricultural land.
The Fang ethnic group, established in a region extending from Yaoundé in Cameroon to Ogooué in Gabon, has never had political unity. Clan cohesion was maintained through religious and judicial associations such as the so and the ngil.  

Watch the video

Sold 


This item is sold with its certificate of authenticity

Estimated shipping cost





OriginEx-collection française
EthnyFang
Countrygabon
Material(s)wood
Height cm49
Width21 cm
Weight0.93 Kg
Socle inclusOptional

You could also be interested by these items

You must login to access these options
   Warn me if a similar item is added to the catalog
   Warn me if the price decreases
Manage my alerts


You have question on this item ? contact us


Previously viewed items
African art - Fang mask
African art  - 

© 2024 - Digital Consult SPRL

Essentiel Galerie SPRL
73A Rue de Tournai - 7333 Tertre - Belgique
+32 (0)65.529.100
visa Master CardPaypal