The Fang are a people living in Equatorial New Guinea, Congo, and Gabon, where the rare 19th century mask originated that’s featured in Christie’s African & Oceanic Art auction in Paris tomorrow. The Fang used this one in their N’Gil magic ceremony, whose purpose was to rout out sorcerers. Christie’s hopes to conjure $798,804-$1.06m for the wooden mask.
Another star at the December 13th sale is expected to be a 19th century Luba Caryatide, a 20-inch wooden figurine of a woman with hands aloft. Christie’s expects an elevated $665,670-$1.06m for the item. Also featured is a 19th century Fon Lion, a highly detailed work in metal expected to realize $266,268-$399,402.
