Kwese Standing Figure Gabon

A creatively designed standing figure with arms wrapped around the torso. The face is distinctly Kwese, with muted features and squinting eyes. This carving displays one of the styles not often seen in African art, as Kwese carving convention is not particularly well known.

The Kwese number less than 100,000, and neighbors Congo region tribes such as the Pende and Mbala. The Pende influence on their art is often obvious at first glance. They are known for the masks, many using the helmet design, used by dancers and in initiation ceremonies. When not used for ceremony, such masks were kept in special houses as fetish objects, and offerings were made to them.

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