The curious case of the "Ngi" mask of Gabon

An elderly couple in France were clearing out their holiday home in Gard, Southern France with the intention of selling their home. They chanced upon a wooden mask that was lying in the attic with dust on it. The house belonged to the man's grandfather, who was in colonial administration in the Africa in the 20th century. They talked to a dealer for clearing out old items and sold the dealer many items including this mask. 

What they were not aware was that it was a very rare artefact, it was the "Ngi" mask from the 19th Century, made by Fang people of Gabon. The mask was sold by the dealer for a whopping €4.2m while the couple had sold it for €150 to the dealer. The couple read of the auction in a newspaper. It is said only 10 such items are available of the Fang people. 

The couple has approached court and filed a civil case against the dealer and they want the sale to be annulled or want a share of the proceeds. While campaigners in the Gabon government demand that the mask be returned to Gabon.