Well known for their reliquary figures the Fang also danced finely sculpted masks during a number of ritual activities. Among the Fang, white-painted masks identified with the Ngil society are known for their elegant abstractions of the human face. Ngil masks have been described as having a 'heart-shaped face' due to the facial features emphasizing refined curves of the orbital ridges above the eyes and the prominent line of the long tapering nose that ended above a discretely mouth carved at the bottom of the chin that completes the abstraction of the face. The Fang people used masks in their secret societies. Members of this male society wore the Ngil masks during the initiation of new members and the persecution of wrongdoers. Masqueraders, clad in raffia costumes and attended by helpers, would materialize in the village after dark, illuminated by flickering torchlight.

Size: 56cm H x 17cm W

Base Depth: 14cm

14-day returns

On items eligible for returns, you have 14 days from delivery to submit a return request. Learn more.

Ordering between the UK and the EU?

There are no hidden fees or additional charges once you’ve paid for your order. Enjoy hassle-free cross-border shopping. Learn more