Fang ancestor figure from the Byeri, Gabon - Lot 55

Fang ancestor figure from the Byeri, Gabon African Fang statues from the Byeri cult. A succession of curved volumes make up the musculature of this ancestor with a stretched torso. The face, with its gleaming metallic pupils, is highlighted by the elegant wicker collar that encircles the neck to the collarbones. The figure is frozen in an attitude of deference, holding a libation horn. Heterogeneous glossy patina. Cracks 44 x 10 cm Among the peoples known as the Fang, or "Pahouins", described as conquering warriors, boxes containing the relics of illustrious ancestors were guarded by the oldest man in the village, the "esa". Topped by a statue or head acting as guardian of the "byeri" boxes, they were stored in a dark corner of the hut, supposed to divert evil influences to someone else. Samples were also taken from the figures for therapeutic purposes. They were also used during initiation ceremonies for young people associated with the "So" society. During festivals, the statues were separated from their boxes and paraded.