African wooden Fang masks

Size: From 30cm (H) - more masks below description

Fang masks are distinctive wooden African masks associated with the Fang people of Central Africa, particularly Gabon, Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea. Known for their elongated facial forms, strong symmetry and expressive carved features, Fang masks are an important part of the artistic heritage of the region. African Crafts Market offers a selection of handcrafted Fang masks in different colours, patterns, sizes and decorative styles. Each wooden mask is individually carved and finished, making every piece slightly different. These African masks can be displayed as distinctive wall décor, African art or as part of a collection of ethnographic and contemporary African artworks.

Please remember: this is an authentic tribal mask, and it is entirely hand crafted - small imperfections, if any, add to its beauty and uniqueness. Each mask is an "original" work of art, individually hand carved, no two are exactly alike which adds to the value of each piece. The original nature of tribal art will be reflected by variances from the mask as shown, each piece of a specific style is similar, but not identical.

What is a Fang mask?

A Fang mask is a type of African wooden mask associated with the Fang people of Central Africa, whose communities are found primarily in Gabon, Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea. Fang masks are particularly recognised for elongated facial proportions, prominent foreheads, strongly defined brows, narrow eyes and carefully carved facial features.

Some of the best-known elongated Fang mask forms are associated with the historic Ngil society. Museum collections describe Ngil-type Fang masks as having elongated faces, broad foreheads, arched brows and small projecting mouths. Traditional examples were made from wood and could incorporate kaolin pigment and fibre or raffia elements.

Below we have a selection of other long Fang masks carved in the same style as above but with different colours, patterns and colours on the Fang mask. Click on the image for a larger view.

More info of African Handcrafted Wooden Fang Masks (Ngil Masks)

Fang Masks from Gabon, Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea

Fang people live across parts of Central Africa, particularly Gabon, southern Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea. Fang artistic traditions include distinctive carved wooden masks and figures characterised by carefully balanced facial proportions and expressive geometric forms. Fang masks vary considerably in appearance. Examples can be elongated and narrow, with prominent foreheads and strongly defined brows, while other Fang masks feature geometric decoration, contrasting colours and painted surfaces.

The elongated white-faced masks commonly associated with the Fang Ngil tradition are particularly recognisable in African art collections. Museum examples show characteristics including elongated faces, broad foreheads, arched brows and small projecting mouths

Frequently Asked Question About Fang Masks

What is a Fang mask?

A Fang mask is a carved African wooden mask associated with the Fang people of Central Africa, particularly communities in Gabon, Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea. Where do Fang masks come from? Fang masks originate from the cultural region of the Fang people, principally across Gabon, southern Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea.

What are Fang masks made from?

Traditional Fang masks are commonly carved from wood. Some historic examples also incorporate pigments such as kaolin and fibre or raffia elements.

What does a Fang mask look like?

Many Fang masks have elongated facial proportions, a prominent forehead, strongly defined or arched brows, narrow eyes and a pronounced nose. Decorative styles vary considerably.

What is a Fang Ngil mask?

An Ngil mask is a particular historic type of Fang mask associated with the Ngil association. Museum examples are typically elongated, with broad foreheads, arched brows and distinctive facial proportions.

Are Fang masks African art?

Yes. Fang masks are an important category of Central African art and are represented in major museum and African art collections.

Are Fang masks handmade?

The masks sold on this page are described by African Crafts Market as individually handcrafted and carved from wood, with variations between individual pieces.