Description: FANG NGIL GABON African Mask Approx: 21-1/2" H x 7" W (at widest) x 6" Depth The Ngil (ni - jil) mask originated from an agrarian/hunting group known as the Fang people, located in the countries of Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Cameroon. The Nigil were a secret male society within the Fang people tasked with protecting and administering justice, as well as keeping peace between clans and villages. The Ngil society took part in rituals and ceremonies that were intended to discourage people of the community that might have evil intentions and fight off witchcraft. This group and its traditions however, were outlawed in the late 1920's by French authorities. These masks were worn during the initiation of new members into the group or while policing communities. They are crafted with wood, which is then covered with a layer of soft white clay that is called Kaolinite. The white color of these masks is associates with things like the spirits of ancestors, death, and male virility or manhood. The society's name "Ngil" means “gorilla.” Most Ngil masks are an oval shape featuring arched eyebrows and broad, rounded forehead with an elongated chin and nose. This may be meant to model the face of a gorilla. Masks are one of West Africa's most enduring and compelling art forms. West Africa ranges from Nigeria to the Atlantic Ocean and as far north as Senegal and Mali. The use of masks in this area spans hundreds and perhaps thousands of years. Skilled craftsmen make masks, which are usually carved from wood and painted; they may also incorporate cloth, beads, shells, and raffia. West African masks cover the face or the head and are always worn with a costume. I do my best to accurately describe items, but I am not an expert and do not guarantee descriptions. Please do your own research and use appropriate resources before bidding or purchasing. Used, vintage and antique items are in pre-owned condition and may have signs of wear commensurate with age and use. Please review all photos as an important part of condition and description; and contact me with any questions or concerns. Your item will be carefully wrapped for safe delivery. Package tracking information is listed on eBay. I may recycle and reuse clean packing materials for environmental reasons and to keep down costs. Smoke free home.
Price: 135 USD
Location: Larchmont, New York
End Time: 2024-02-05T17:54:31.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
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Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Country/Region of Manufacture: Gabon
Handmade: Yes
Modified Item: No
Culture: African
