Ngon Ntang Mask

The NgonTang mask is a helmet mask that belongs to the secret society of the same name and that mainly participates in the rites also called Ngon Ntang of which the mask takes its name. During this ceremony the hallucinogenic iboga plant is taken so that its members can come into contact with the spirits of the afterlife. These masks can have two faces, Janus, or four, opposite two to two, which will allow you to see in all directions as well as the past, present and future. Its white pigmentation is a reference to the afterlife. The mask wears a fibre necklace and its carrier hides its body under a wide garment. He takes part in various demonstrations organized for funerals and mourning, because thanks to his ability to communicate with the spirits he can communicate to relatives the wishes of the deceased. It is also required in the births or playful holidays of the village. Although it represents a spirit coming from the world of the deceased dances always by day. It represents the spirit of a young white woman who means her name, endowed with clairvoyance as indicated by the four faces who look at the same time towards the four cardinal points.