Wood mask, 'Fang Ceremony'

A helmet-like headdress contrasts with dark sese wood features, conferring a serious air on this elegant personage. Triangles adorn the cheek like tears and a diamond adorns the upper portion. Crafted by Salihu Ibrahim and considered therapeutic, the mask represents the Fang tribe of Gabon. Such masks are used for rituals and, above all, for the initiation of young males during the great So festival that celebrates an abundant harvest.