The Mitsogho and Fang call this type of helmet mask ngontang, a term that is a contraction of nlo ngon ntanga, which means ?face of the daughter of the white man.? Introduced in the 1920s, these mask were a ritual object that fought against malevolent forces such as witchcraft. It is thought the ngontang replaced the ngil mask, which policed the Fang communities and was banned by the French colonial government.?

This specific wooden helm mask with heart shaped face is in good condition with beautiful aged patina.




Object: Helmet mask

Indigenous object name: Ngongtang

Ethnic group/ culture: Mitsogho

Region/ country: Gabon

Material: Wood

Period: 2nd half 20th century

Condition: Good

Sold with stand: No

Dimensions: 36?27?27 cm

Weight: 2400 g

Reserve: $100.00

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Location: This item ships from Netherlands.

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