Authentic Fang Tribe Ngil Mask. Secret Society. Gabon. Africa.

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Elongated masks such as this were worn by  religious and judiciary members who were members of a secret society called Ngil.  They hunted and punished sorcerers, evil doers, those who broke the law and as a mediator between clans and rival villages.  Judgment would be passed in magic ceremonies where masks were worn.

Typically, masks were worn by the Ngil when judgment was being passed . . .  for an added dramatic effect.  The masks were typically elongated, covered with kaolin (soft white clay) and accented with a dark border and dark accents (such as the nose on this one).

As simple as this mask looks, it is linked with death . . .  a typical sentence passed down to accused sorcerers.

Age unknown but certainly not recent.  Stand not included.