Hand Carved Fang African mask small - 204.2 by Botanical Boys

Well known for their reliquary figures the Fang also danced finely sculpted masks during a number of ritual activities. Among the Fang, white-painted masks identified with the Ngil society are known for their elegant abstractions of the human face. Ngil masks have been described as having a 'heart-shaped face' due to the facial features emphasizing refined curves of the orbital ridges above the eyes and the prominent line of the long tapering nose that ended above a discretely mouth  carved at the bottom of the chin that completes the abstraction of the face. The Fang people used masks in their secret societies. Members of this male society wore the Ngil masks during the initiation of new members and the persecution of wrongdoers. Masqueraders, clad in raffia costumes and attended by helpers, would materialize in the village after dark, illuminated by flickering torchlight.

Size:  H 26cm W 12cm D 9cm

* Dispatched direct from supplier, delivery information – Your shipping options may vary depending on your location and size or weight of each item. Shipping options and charges are available on the checkout page. Due to the large size and weight of some of our products certain orders may be subject to additional shipping charges. We aim to dispatch within 3 days, standard courier delivery times are 2-5 business days. We endeavour to fulfil all orders placed. If we are unable to deliver to your location we will let you know. Botanical Boys parcels going out via courier are insured through the carrier, we currently use DPD but from time to time we may use another service. We will always ensure couriers have an insurance policy on their parcel deliveries. Please allow extra time during peak times.