A RARE FANG MASK, GABON, AFRICA.This is an unusual small face-sized mask of heavily patinated carved wood with incised designs and remains of animal hair, early 20th century. (Provenance: Private collection, West Coast). Overall good condition, some weathering. The mask itself measures 10 1/2 inches tall x 6 1/2 inches wide. A professional quality display stand is also included. Among the Fang of southern Cameroon (the Beti and Bulu Ngumba groups) and northern Gabon (the Ntumu and Betsi groups), the Byeri society practiced a system of worship involving ancestral relics, while the Ngil rites instead utilized human bones derived from anonymous outsiders such as prisoners of war or slaves, in specific practices intended to combat malicious witchcraft. These ceremonies involved spectacular dances, and the nocturnal intervention of a terrifying mask in the image of a long, pale face. The role of this character was to discover potentially hidden sorcerers in the villages, and to judge and punish them. As time went on, however, the brutal interventions of the Ngil militias began to cause great unrest in the villages where they were intended to promote peace. They were consequently forbidden by the colonial authorities and religious missions in the period between 1910 and 1920 (depending upon the region). This prohibition caused the gradual disappearance of the large Fang Ngil masks. Despite their astonishingly pure forms, minimalist ornament, and sublime, majestic expressions Fang masks are the most sought after masks by collectors today. These were integral emblems of a belief system which feared the power of spirits of the beyond, and promoted a hope to defeat death and evil, especially those caused by the malicious sorcery. These ancient masks evoke Ngil as the keeper of the balance between living and the dead.

Overall well worn, deep honey brown patina