Fang, Overhead Mask "Ngontang"
44 cm (1' 5"), Gabon-Cameroon

These overhead masks, also called "Ngontang" or "Ngontanga," were used in cult practices shortly before 1920. According to traditions, they symbolize the spirit of a girl, a powerful spirit being from the afterlife. Their main task is to detect sorcerers who misuse their powers and to punish them in a magical manner. They are also used at major festivals, funerals, birth celebrations, and during important decisions of the village community. The four faces of the mask are interpreted differently: They either represent four spirit beings, or they signify the four life stages of a human. The present mask is a wonderful example of this type of mask. It is old and used; the four heads are polychrome with kaolin colored, while the mouth of the four faces is painted differently with red dye - oppositely located, once in a square, then in a lip-like shape. A mounted feather crown from sacrificial animals (chickens) crowns this excellent mask.
Collection: G.F. Vesely, AT