FANG MASK - Gabon

Origin. Gabon
Tribe name. Fang
Material. Wood
Dimension. 32 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h, open.

This decorative mask from the Fang ethnic group (Central Africa) is a classic example of the Ngil style. These masks were worn by members of the eponymous secret society charged with delivering justice and exposing witches.
Here is a detailed description of its visual characteristics:

Morphological Features
– Slim, elongated shape: The mask presents a heart-shaped face, highly stretched downward, with a broad and rounded forehead that ends in a pointed chin.
– White patina: The face is covered with kaolin (white clay), a color symbolizing the world of spirits, purity, and death among the Fang.
– The nose: It is extremely long and straight, extending nearly the full length of the visage, which emphasizes the verticality of the piece.

Details and Ornamentation
– Engraved elements: Scarifications or ritual marks incised:
• Vertical lines on the cheeks, starting beneath the eyes.
• Simple geometric motifs on the forehead and chin.
– The eyes: Small, represented by thin horizontal slits, giving the mask an expression of serene introspection or severe detachment.
– The mouth: Placed very low on the face, it is small, discreet, and slightly ajar.
– The headdress: The top of the skull is marked by a dark area (black pigment) divided by vertical grooves, suggesting a hairstyle or crest.