The Fang masks belong to the most sought after objects in African art. This is due to both the rareness of absolute top pieces and to the subtle beauty, which marks them all. In spring 2007 such a Ngil Mask achieved the price of 5 Mio. Euros!
These masks are used always then, when the social order has gone awry. In case of riots or even worse, her evenminded expression helps the bearer to a quicker success regarding the adherence of their commands.
Also this piece from the stock of a Hamburg collector has these characteristics – particularly in profile it develops a very special and amiable expression. A look at the back shows reddish aeruginoused wood, whose fine brilliance indicates a frequent usage.
The mask has a pedestal and can therefore stand very well on a sideboard or something similar. |
