This vintage wood carved Fang NGIL (gorilla) mask has a beautiful white and brown patina and interesting bird-like head piece. The heart shape face, prominent nose, high forehead and puckered mouth are typical features of these masks which were worn by the Ngil—a secret society banned by French colonial rulers in 1910—during initiations, ceremonies, and processions. The society’s name means “gorilla,” and the masks arched eyebrows and broad, rounded forehead may be meant to model the face of a gorilla. The white patina is significant as this is a color that the Fang associate with ancestral spirits, death, and male virility. A beautiful mask for your African art collection. Has rope for hanging but can be displayed on a mask stand. Stand sold separately.
Measures 17" x 6 1/8" W
Place of origin: Gabon
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