African mask: During the 18th -19th centuries the Fang migrated from the northwest and today are scattered across Cameroon, Guinea and Gabon. Their social structure is based on the clan and family. Cohesion among the eighty or so Fang clans is maintained through powerful religious and judiciary societies called the So and Ngil. The Ngil masks offered here are contemporary versions of the masks that were worn by members who acted as a policing power during the ceremonies and on occasion were worn by those who handed down the sentences of wrong doers. The French colonials banned use of these elongated masks following a series of ritual murders in 1910. The Fang are very proud of the Ngil masks and what they represent. Many variations have been created through the years reinforcing their traditional past while allowing for updated creativity. The masks on display is an extra large version usually found outside of the home in clear view during village ceremonial holidays. Gongs, pipes and lizards all traditional Fang symbols serve to highlight the bright orange, white and dark blue pigmentation. The teeth are a friendly reminder of their fierce historic past. Please click photo for enlargement! See another photo and other selections below. When OFFLINE click button to leave a message! Dimensions: 48 inches tall x 13 inches wide. Wt: 15 lbs. shipping **For a complete inventory listing please go to the 'Index' section on the Navigation Bar to your right** |
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| A beautiful dark brown and off white super sized selection! Used mostly outdoors as a sign of tribal pride during village celebrations. Sold Dimensions: 46 inches tall x13 inches wide. Please click photo for enlargement! see another photo below. |
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