[Untitled]
Item
Accession Number
2024.23.
Subject
Mask|Ceremonial|Central Africa
Country
Gabon
Date
Early 20th Century
Medium
Patinated wood, Kaolin
Format
H x W x D: 15 in x 11 1/4 in x 9 1/4 in (38.1 cm x 28.575 cm x 23.495 cm)
Description
The large helmet mask is a type of Fang Ngil mask, recognizable by the usage of white kaolin to paint the face. The mask has two mirrored sides, both depicting a long heart shaped face. A thin, elongated nose divides the face in half connecting to the rounded brow bones above the eyes. The mouth is wide with rows of teeth protruding. Detailed lines have been carved into the top of the head in the patinated wood to resemble scarification patterns. The ngil masks were most likely worn by a male society during the initiation or reprimanding of members. The white kaoli may be in reference to the power of the ancestors.
Type
Face Mask
Conforms To
Fang