Fang Mask From Gabon
Origin. Gabon
Tribe Name. Fang
Material. Wood.
Dimensions. H 42 cm W 26 cm
Shipping Method. Colissimo/DHL within 24–48 business hours
This magnificent tribal art mask, characteristic of the Fang culture (originating mainly in Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Cameroon), features remarkable aesthetics and meticulous details visible from every angle.1. Description of the FrontThe face (the “blong”): The oval face is coated in a light, creamy-white finish (often made from kaolin, associated with ancestral spirits and the afterlife). The surface displays a beautiful, crackled patina from use.Features:The high, domed forehead is topped with subtle, raised scarification lines.The nose is long, straight, and tapers delicately toward the base.The eyes are represented by small, dark indentations or inlaid beads/discs with an introspective gaze, characteristic of the Fang people’s spiritual inner world.The mouth is small, slightly parted, and finely sculpted.2. The Headdress and Top of the HeadStructure: The top and back of the mask are covered with a dark, brown patina weathered by time, evoking an elaborate traditional headdress.The Ornate Crest: At the top of the head sits a crest adorned with small metal studs (or gold cabochons) arranged in a geometric pattern, held in place by red fabric ties.3. Contours and FinishesThe Ears: The stylized ears are set apart from the face and pierced, sometimes associated with the wearing of adornments.The Collar and Back:The mask is designed like a helmet or a helmet-mask.The base and back incorporate strips of red/brown fabric and knotted braided fibers, which were once used to adjust or secure the dance costume.The back of the raw wood shows traces of ancient carving and a beautiful patina from handling.This type of mask was traditionally used during rituals of the Ngil secret society (a society of purification and justice) or for initiatory and festive dances related to ancestor worship. It combines the raw power of organic materials with the sculptural serenity of the white face.
Tribe Name. Fang
Material. Wood.
Dimensions. H 42 cm W 26 cm
Shipping Method. Colissimo/DHL within 24–48 business hours
This magnificent tribal art mask, characteristic of the Fang culture (originating mainly in Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Cameroon), features remarkable aesthetics and meticulous details visible from every angle.1. Description of the FrontThe face (the “blong”): The oval face is coated in a light, creamy-white finish (often made from kaolin, associated with ancestral spirits and the afterlife). The surface displays a beautiful, crackled patina from use.Features:The high, domed forehead is topped with subtle, raised scarification lines.The nose is long, straight, and tapers delicately toward the base.The eyes are represented by small, dark indentations or inlaid beads/discs with an introspective gaze, characteristic of the Fang people’s spiritual inner world.The mouth is small, slightly parted, and finely sculpted.2. The Headdress and Top of the HeadStructure: The top and back of the mask are covered with a dark, brown patina weathered by time, evoking an elaborate traditional headdress.The Ornate Crest: At the top of the head sits a crest adorned with small metal studs (or gold cabochons) arranged in a geometric pattern, held in place by red fabric ties.3. Contours and FinishesThe Ears: The stylized ears are set apart from the face and pierced, sometimes associated with the wearing of adornments.The Collar and Back:The mask is designed like a helmet or a helmet-mask.The base and back incorporate strips of red/brown fabric and knotted braided fibers, which were once used to adjust or secure the dance costume.The back of the raw wood shows traces of ancient carving and a beautiful patina from handling.This type of mask was traditionally used during rituals of the Ngil secret society (a society of purification and justice) or for initiatory and festive dances related to ancestor worship. It combines the raw power of organic materials with the sculptural serenity of the white face.
3 000 €
Period: 20th century
Style: Tribal Art
Condition: Good condition
Material: Solid wood
Length: 42 cm
Width: 26 cm
Height: 42 cm
Reference (ID): 1805729
Availability: In stock
Print
