Global Art & Artifacts

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

Click the photo above for a larger version and more pictures

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.

Search EsotericStuff.com
SERIOUS COLLECTORS

NOTE to the Art Collector, Gallery Owner, Dealer or Academic: click here for items unique to your requirements.

Product Categories
CContainers
Bowls, Boxes, Bells, Gongs, Medicine Holders. Containers not considered vessels
FFurniture / Furnishings
Furniture, Furnishings, Wall Hangings, Screens, Lamps, Display Pieces, Pedestals, Paintings
MMasks
Masks and Headgear
RReference / Research
Maps, Books and Materials
SStatues & Figures
Statues, Sculptures, Figures, Heads & Busts
VVessels & Vases
Vessels, Urns, Vases, Incense Burners, Censers
WWeapons
Knives, Swords, Letter Openers, Phurbas, Spears, Blowpipes
OOther not categorized
Other and miscellaneous such as Jewelry, Musical Instruments, Games, Garments, Skulls