Fang Reliquary Head Gabon

This exquisitely sculpted head was traditionally associated with figures and masks prevalent across a vast region spanning from Cameroon to Gabon and the Atlantic coast. While the specific function of this remarkable old carving is unknown, its intricate craftsmanship and facial features resemble figural images found on family altars, leading us to believe it may have been part of the Fang Byeri funerary cult. This cult utilized Byeri reliquaries to house the bones of ancestors and were revered through annual ceremonies, during which they took the form of sculptures. Dating back to as early as 1907 (Tessmann 1913/1972, vol. II), the Byeri cult began to decline in importance after 1910 due to pressure from the French colonial government. In the past, these figures were often adorned with native copper bands and occasionally held miniature ancestor figures or carved animal horns known as Nlakh or small cups used in Byeri rituals to honor ancestors.

148923