Helmet mask "ngoin", 19th century

Description

wood, blackish brown patina, small remains of white and red paint, pear-shaped face with prominent circular eyes, round bulging coiffure with flat lancet-shaped crest, slightly dam. (right ear), abrasion of paint, insect caused missing parts (above all backside at the lower rim and on the inside);
this is a typical female mask - “ngoin” - distinct with the hairdress of royal titled wives (central lozenge-shape). “Ngoin” serves as a generic symbol of womanhood. “Ngoin” masks always followed a male leader mask. So called lineage masks perform publicly at the commemorative death celebrations of Fons and title-holders and at the kingdoms annual dance, a high point of celebration during the festive cycle of the dry season.