Fang, Gabon. Wood, metal studs, pigments. Height: 14''

Rare shark mask - a primodial ancestor in a zoomorphic form.

It could be argued that the existence of this kind of mask resulted from the many migratory experiences of the Fang people, whereby they encountered many animals, including sharks.

Uses included, cyclic agricultural and protection ceremonies, and for dealing with issues relevant to the ancestor cults. 

Ezn. 125