Fang-gabon Relic Chest Lid
Origin: Gabon
Tribe: Fang
Material: Wood
Dimensions: 28 cm
Shipping method: Colissimo/DHL within 24–48 hours
This magnificent sculpture depicts a Fang reliquary head (more specifically associated with the Ntumu subgroup), traditionally used to crown cylindrical boxes (nsek bieri) containing the bones of revered ancestors.Here is a detailed description of the work from various perspectives:1. Structure and Morphology of the HeadGeneral Shape: The face features clean, geometric forms characteristic of Fang art. The forehead is prominent, domed, and rounded, blending harmoniously with the line of the nose.The eyes: They are formed by metal inlays (brass or copper) secured with circular, serrated, or radiating elements, each featuring a central pin marking the pupil. This technique gives the eyes a piercing, luminous intensity that contrasts sharply with the darkness of the wood.The Nose and Mouth: The nose is straight, slender, and elongated, while the mouth is prominent, slightly parted with full, elongated lips, and sits above a short chin.The neck: The head extends into a long, cylindrical, and powerful neck, originally designed to be firmly planted or inserted into the opening of the bark reliquary.2. Hairstyle and HeaddressThe dorsal structure: The back of the head is dominated by a voluminous and complex hairstyle, carved with fine geometric incisions.The pattern: The strands are meticulously arranged in herringbone patterns or symmetrical parallel striations that run down the nape of the neck into a long braid or sagittal crest characteristic of traditional Ntumu hairstyles.3. Patina and SurfaceThe Patina: The object is covered with a rich, dark, glossy, and deep patina (often created using soot, palm oil, and sacrificial resins applied during rituals).Signs of Age: The wood bears the marks of its age, with areas of wear, natural cracks, and missing sections at the lower base (the mounting tenon), attesting to its authentic ritual use and historical handling.
Tribe: Fang
Material: Wood
Dimensions: 28 cm
Shipping method: Colissimo/DHL within 24–48 hours
This magnificent sculpture depicts a Fang reliquary head (more specifically associated with the Ntumu subgroup), traditionally used to crown cylindrical boxes (nsek bieri) containing the bones of revered ancestors.Here is a detailed description of the work from various perspectives:1. Structure and Morphology of the HeadGeneral Shape: The face features clean, geometric forms characteristic of Fang art. The forehead is prominent, domed, and rounded, blending harmoniously with the line of the nose.The eyes: They are formed by metal inlays (brass or copper) secured with circular, serrated, or radiating elements, each featuring a central pin marking the pupil. This technique gives the eyes a piercing, luminous intensity that contrasts sharply with the darkness of the wood.The Nose and Mouth: The nose is straight, slender, and elongated, while the mouth is prominent, slightly parted with full, elongated lips, and sits above a short chin.The neck: The head extends into a long, cylindrical, and powerful neck, originally designed to be firmly planted or inserted into the opening of the bark reliquary.2. Hairstyle and HeaddressThe dorsal structure: The back of the head is dominated by a voluminous and complex hairstyle, carved with fine geometric incisions.The pattern: The strands are meticulously arranged in herringbone patterns or symmetrical parallel striations that run down the nape of the neck into a long braid or sagittal crest characteristic of traditional Ntumu hairstyles.3. Patina and SurfaceThe Patina: The object is covered with a rich, dark, glossy, and deep patina (often created using soot, palm oil, and sacrificial resins applied during rituals).Signs of Age: The wood bears the marks of its age, with areas of wear, natural cracks, and missing sections at the lower base (the mounting tenon), attesting to its authentic ritual use and historical handling.
3 200 €
Period: 20th century
Style: Tribal Art
Condition: Good condition
Material: Solid wood
Length: 28 cm
Height: 28 cm
Reference (ID): 1806603
Availability: In stock
Print
