Gabon, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea Regions

Fang

Wood, Calabash, Metal Wire, Cane
ca. Early-Mid 20th century
Length: 73 cm
Chordophone – Zither (Stick)

The Fang mvet, from Gabon, Cameroon, São Tomé and Equatorial Guinea, consists of a tubular stick of palm-raffia or bamboo with a high easel placed vertically in the middle, bisecting the length of four to five strings. Underneath the rod are gourds/calabashes that serve as resonators.  The instrument is held with the central gourds pressed against the chest to close or open with a movement of the arms while the player’s fingers on both hands pluck the strings on both sides of the easel. This mvet has five metal strings, four calabashes and is in excellent playing condition.   Mvett players are highly respected.