Gabon, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea Regions
Fang

Wood, rattan
Mid 20th Century
Length: 15 in, Width: 9 in, Depth: 6 in
Idiophone – Struck Directly  – Bell, Wooden

The Fang are best known for their wooden reliquary figures which are abstract anthropomorphic carvings. Nevertheless, cult accessories such as this Fang wooden head bell, is a sacred instrument to the Fang.  The bell is topped with a finial that displays a reliquary head of the byeri.  Features are a helmet hairstyle and horizontal lips forming a wide pout (characteristic of the Ntumu style from the regions between Gabon, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea). Using a wooden stick to tap on the hollowed wooden bell would herald the beginning of ceremonies. Attached to this Fang head bell is an ornately carved stick of geometric designs with facial features at the end.