Vili mask, Gabonn This Vili-inspired African mask... Lot 38

Vili mask, Gabonn This Vili-inspired African mask takes elements from the white masks of the Punu. At the top is the tip of what was once a divided headdress. The face bears checkerboard keloids. Abraded matte patina 27 x 18 cm Sold without base Present along the coast of Gabon, the Vili broke away from the Kongo kingdom in the 16th century and the Loango kingdom became a powerful state. Now largely urbanized, they still belong to traditional ancestor-cult associations such as Mbouiti and Bieri. Like the Kongo group, they produce a wide variety of magical ritual objects of the nkisi type to protect themselves against witchcraft and various plagues. Their masks are used by the Ndunga or Djembe association, but also for dignitary funerals and during traditional initiations. Others are reserved for diviners. The Vili, Lâri, Sûndi, Woyo, Bembé, Bwende, Yombé and Kôngo formed the Kôngo group, led by the ntotela king. Their kingdom reached its apogee in the 16th century with the ivory and copper trade and the slave trade. With the same beliefs and traditions, they produced statuary with codified gestures in line with their worldview. Litt. Masques du Gabon" ed. Sillages