Fang Byeri Figure, Gabon , encrusted patina African Start Price USD 490.00 Current Price USD 490.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Monday, September 29, 2008 End Time Thursday, October 09, 2008 Location Denver, CO See more about 'Fang Byeri Figure, Gabon , encrusted patina African' Description Fang byeri figure Gabon African Carving Type of Object: Standing Byeri figure. Ethnic Group: Fang Country of Origin:Gabon Materials: Wood, stain and metal tacks for eyes. Approximate Age: 20th century Dimensions: Height is 22 inches. Overall Condition: Good Damage, Repair: stain, wear, chips in places Provenance: Unknown Additional Information: As some of the most powerful and best know sculptural forms emerging from Africa, Fang figures hold a prominent place in the history of African art. As reliquary guardians, Fang figures often appear as though they are slightly crouched with legs slightly bent or shown in a seated position with a narrow stick-like extension often reaching downwards from the buttocks. This latter posture enables the figures to perch on the edge of the ancestral reliquary known as a 'byeri' with their legs hanging over the side. The byeri reliquary held the bones of ancestors and was venerated through annual ceremonies at which they were present in the form of the sculptures. Photographed as early as 1907 (Tessmann 1913/1972, vol. II) the cult of Byeri began to lose its prominence after 1910 due to colonial government pressure. In the past, figures would often be embellished with native copper bands around arms or wrists and some would hold in front of them miniature ancestor figures or carved animal horns known as Nlakh or small cups used in byeri rituals.I have examined this piece and agree with the description.Niangi Batulukisi, Ph.D.**032708** All content, including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc., 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Please visit our About Us page. SquareTrade © AP6.0 PesaMember Place a Bid!