Ancestor figure – Wood – Kwele – Gabon

A large figure of the Kwele (also known as Bakwele) people, who live in the corner of the three lands, between Cameroon, Gabon and the Congo. Kwele masks are well known and are relatively common. The figures, on the other hand, are very rare. The male standing ‘sculpture’ is carved in clear and light wood. It shows a typical Kwele face, as we know it from the masks: edged in the shape of a heart, cut and pointing eyes, as well as a wide and triangular nose. The head, the rest of the face is coloured in white kaolin.

An interesting figure, with great patina and traces of wear and tear.