Reliquary guardian figure (eyema bieri)
Gabon, Fang people, Mvai Group
Mid–late 19th century
Wood, metal, and shell
21 1/4 x 5 1/4 x 5 3/4 in. (53.97 x 13.34 x 14.6 cm)
The Eugene and Margaret McDermott Art Fund, Inc., 2000.3.McD

Each Fang group has a distinctive carving style. This eyema bieri typifies the Mvai style, which is distinguished by a massive head that is one-third of the body, an elegant hairstyle with three triangular braided crests, and a robust, muscular body. Tiny shell eyes and bared teeth present a vigilant, threatening appearance.

Eyema bieri guarded the skull and other bones of revered ancestors, which were kept in bark-wood boxes. The stem at the back of the figure was attached to the lid of the container. Appearing to be half-seated, the figure seems ready to defend the relics.