Height 25 in., width 6 in, depth 6 in.

The art works of Fang people, particularly from wood, iron and steatite, are regionally famous. Their wooden masks and idol carvings are on display at numerous museums of the world. Discovery of Fang artwork was source of inspiration for much of the European avant-garde artwork created during the 20th century. Much of the art is either used for their masquerades, or function as reliquaries and effigies. All are primarily made by the men of the village. There is reason to believe that many of these reliquaries were made during the Fang migration as a form of burial which was also portable. One of the most popular art forms attributed to the Fang culture are the wooden reliquary heads, many of which contain the skull or bones of ancestors. There is a characteristic heart-shaped, concave face and large bulbous forehead. The heads are very abstract and focus on geometric form and covered in a black patina. Some appear to cry, which is streaks of resin made from a mixture of palm oil and other seed oils. The heads are tied to the ideas of welfare and social power. Heads are an effigy and can be affixed to a wooden reliquary box/barrel.The bones and skulls of deceased leaders are kept in cylindrical boxes that are decorated with wooden sculptured figures. These bones are believed to have special powers that protect the well-being of the community. The bones are always within the possession of the deceased leader family and it kept hidden from the eyes of the uninitiated and of women. Throughout Gabon, these reliquary figures serve as guardian to protect the remains of ancestors. Known as bieri,, these reliquary figures widely range in style, but most common characteristics are: short, rounded body parts, long torso, a large head, and a prominent forehead and concave face. Some earlier figures had cavities in the abdomen as a place to store bones of ancestors. The figures are not completed until they are ceremoniously presented and rubbed with palm oil. Members of the community will continually visit figures and rub them with oil so they maintain their protective powers.

Condition: Good Condition, showing age. No damage or apparent defects to report. If documentation is not listed or photographed, the lot is sold without documentation. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact Woodard Lipe Fine Art and Auction with any questions prior to bidding. All sales are final. Winning bidders will be sent invoices with approximate shipping quotes available through UPS and their international partners for out of country. Credit cards are accepted for invoices under $1000. Higher amounts must be paid by e-check or wire transfer.