Fang Mask (Gabon)

This Fang mask has a long "U"-shaped face, with large, round eye sockets framing almond-shaped eyes. Small carved holes line the under-eye area and cheeks, resembling traditional scarification. A narrow, elongated nose extends down the center of the face, giving it a strong, distinctive profile.

The Fang mask from Gabon is an expressive artifact that captures the cultural depth and spiritual beliefs of the Fang people. Hand-carved from wood, these masks are instantly recognizable by their elongated faces, pronounced features, and stylized expressions - similar to this mask. Often used in ceremonies and rituals, they represent ancestral spirits, guardianship, and social structure within Fang communities, serving as conduits for spiritual protection and respect.

The Fang people of Gabon, primarily settled in the forests of central Africa, are known for their skilled woodcarving. Their masks and statues are crafted with precision and symbolic meaning, reflecting the Fang’s dedication to art, ancestry, and their connection to nature.

22in x 10.5in x 3.5in
Misgana African Art Private Collection

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