Description:
From our personal collection, on offer is a beautifully sculpted Byeri figure from the Fang peoples of Gabon. Such figures are intended to guard the relics of tribal ancestors, & are placed atop the containers housing the ancestral relics. The "stem" supporting the figure's buttocks would be used to help secure the statue by inserting it into the lid of the Byeri box.
We believe this piece to be the result of a gifted carver's more contemporary interpretation of the traditional Byeri form. We were struck by its smooth, curvaceous contours. The richly grained, heavy wood has been expertly carved to reveal a highly stylized figure with prominent chin, shapely breasts, & rather bulbous buttocks.
Despite some minor imperfections in the wood (primarily fine age cracks), this striking sculpture is in very good overall condition. A most handsome display.