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The helmet mask or helm called ngontang, used by the Fangs, is a fascinating ritual object. The dancer in trance wears this mask to which long plant fibers are attached to the edge, thus hiding the dancer. The mask is white because it represents a young girl's spirit who came to protect the tribe. Thanks to its three faces and six eyes, it is capable of spotting sorcerers and evil spirits wherever they are.
The mask is made of soft wood, quite light, and has three heart-shaped faces. It has a beautiful and significant patina of use as well as significant age erosion, dating from the first half of the 20th century. Please note, it has cracks, dents and notable erosion. It measures 33 cm high. The decoration of small holes, made with a white-hot metal rod, represents ritual scarifications.
This mask is rare, and a rather similar example with a heart-shaped face was observed at Christie's.=> FANG
Ref: H8GQF0ILIG