Ngil mask - Fang - Cameroon

The masks called Ngil, generally white and elongated, are traditionally associated with the Ngil ritual, although their use is shrouded in mystery. The Ngil, which was banned in Gabon in 1910, is intended to protect individuals against evil spells and poisoning, and has three ranks: Mbege-Feg, the chief Ngil and great initiate; Mod-Esam, the organizer of the ceremonies; and Nnom-Ngi, the ordinary initiates. Initiation involves a series of tests and an explanation of the prohibitions of Ngil. It is likely that after the ban and the disappearance of Ngil as a ritual regulating village life at the beginning of the century (in Gabon), other rites replaced it. Today, they only appear as part of folkloric celebrations, but fifty years ago, it was different: the mask appeared at dawn or dusk, armed with a wooden sword or a simple stick, and surrounded by its followers. It would destroy the kitchens or houses of villagers who were disrespectful towards members of the 'society,' adulterers, thieves, or debtors, makers of talismans or deadly medicines. The mask had a terrifying, deep, hoarse, and formidable voice that could frighten women and children. The mask is composed of a series of curves and planes that subtly intertwine around the elongated, straight nose, within an elongated heart shape below which the mouth is carved, slightly open, with finely carved teeth, occupying the entire lower edge of the face. The upper eyelashes and ears are subtly depicted. The tattoo running down the center of the nose, drawing attention to the face and ending in the middle of the forehead with the outline of two moons, is, according to Professor Sabater Pi, borrowed from the Bayale pygmies and used by the Okak of Equatorial Guinea.

Provenance: Private collection
Argiles collection, Barcelona