Antique African Gabon Ekuk Kwele Tribal Antelope Mask Wall Hanging

Antique African Kwele Ekuk Tribal Mask from Gabon, circa 1940s.
The Kwele people of Gabon have unwavering belief in Witchcraft and Black Magic.
Consequently, they attribute every misfortune and good fortune to Witchcraft.
These masks also known as 'Ekuk' are worn during a 'Betee' Purification Ritual.
The antelope horns represents the flesh of the antelope eaten at the end of the Betee ritual.
The white kaolin colour represents the colour of the Ekuk spirit.

Featuring 2 tall antelope-like horns in black wood.
Stylised long angular chiseled nose, small eye slits and long protruding ears.
The rest of the facial area is coated in white kaolin.

In very good antique condition.
Please see all images.

Dimensions :
48cm high x 17cm wide x 5cm deep.