Lot 275

A large Fang-Ngumba figure Gabon H 78 cm incl. feathers. During the 19th century, the Ngumba produced ancestral statuary of very recognizable characteristics: generally elongated proportions; a lengthened cylindrical body; a large spherical head and stocky, short legs. The rather sinuous arms are held away from the body, showing defined musculature. Several distinct details are typical: streamlined, well-shaped shoulders; a protruding cylindrical naval tendon subjects with the use of brass attachments in the eyes, on the face and body, or as overlaid ornament (especially bracelets). The facial features are well-defined under a large domed forehead. Other characteristics include a concave face, with large circular or diamond-shaped eyes; a forward-projecting mouth, oval or rectangular, with pursed lips (sometimes in an almost tubular shape), opening to reveal teeth filed to points; and a short rectangular beard adorning the chin of the male figures. Based upon the provenances documented in the records of several German museums, were collected among Ngumba, Bane and sometimes Bulu populations of southwestern Cameroon, south of Sanaga and Nyong, especially in the area of Lolodorf (valley of Lokoundjé).” CF See "Fang" by Perrois 2006: pls. 8-11) From the Lindler collection, Munich