Fang (Fan, Mpangwe, Pahuin, Pamue, Pangwe), Gabon, Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon

Young girl ngontang mask. The Fang are principally hunters, but also farm. Their social structure is based on the clan, a group of individuals with a common ancestor, and on the family. The Fang used masks in their secret societies. The ngontang mask symbolizes a ‘young white girl’. Despite its name, the mask was danced only by initiated men. This mask is colored with white pigments. The ngontang masks were worn in a ritual of the Bieri cult revering departed ancestors during funeral ceremonies and births. Among the Fang people, the white is the color of the dead, and those with white faces have come to visit the living, bringing magic from the realm of the supernatural. Today such masks serve primarily to entertain audiences on festive occasions.

Material:  wood

Size:  H. 17½”, W. 9½”, D. 5”

Price:  $180+$19 (S&H)                                                [#N3F7M207]