African Arts Gallery

Made according to the classic fang criteria, i.e. a morphology with prominent muscles, a concave face topped with a large shell, pupils encrusted with metal, this sculpture recalls the reliquary figures of the cult of "Byeri" ancestors. Shiny patina. Cracking, minimal abrasions.
Among the peoples known as the Fang, or "Pahouins", qualified as conquering warriors, the boxes containing the relics of illustrious ancestors were guarded by the oldest man in the village, the "esa". Surmounted by a statue or a head that acted as guardian of the "byeri" boxes, they were stored in a dark corner of the hut, supposed to divert evil influences towards someone else. Samples were also taken from the figures for therapeutic purposes. They were also used during initiation ceremonies for young people linked to the "So" society. During festivals, the statues were separated from their boxes and carried in parade.