African Arts Gallery

Collection of French African tribal art.
African sculpture of a male ancestor of Byeri, depicted in an uncommon gesture. In addition to local restorations using wicker, the abdomen is provided with an accessory representing the umbilical cord. Dark lacquered patina with reddish reflections, alterations from use. Desiccation cracks.
The people known as Fang, or "Pahouins", described as conquering warriors, invaded by successive leaps, from village to village, the entire vast region between Sanaga in Cameroon and Ogooué in Gabon, between the 18th and the beginning of the 20th century. The boxes containing the relics of illustrious ancestors were guarded by the oldest man in the village, the “esa”. Topped with a statue or head which acted as guardian of the “byeri” boxes, they were stored in a dark corner of the hut, supposed to ward off evil influences. 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 on parade.