Iron Bell — Bamileke people, Cameroon — With Internal Clapper — H 27 cm - Bamileke - Cameroon (No reserve price)
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No reserve price
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Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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Iron Bell — Bamileke people, Cameroon, with internal clapper; height 27 cm, mid 20th century, from a private collection and in good condition.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Origin: Bamileke people
Region/Country: Cameroon
Material: Iron
Height: 27 cm
Dating: Mid 20th century
Provenance: Private collection
Condition: Very good overall condition; regular oxidation patina; original internal clapper present — see photos.
Description
An elegant iron bell from the Bamileke people of Cameroon, fitted with its original internal clapper.
Such bells were used in a variety of contexts, including ceremonial practices, community signaling, and sometimes musical or rhythmic accompaniment during gatherings. Forged from iron, this example combines functional clarity with a strong sculptural presence.
The surface displays a beautiful, even oxidation patina, the result of age and use, which enhances the object’s authenticity and visual depth. With its compact height of 27 cm, this bell is an appealing piece for display, perfectly suited to a cabinet or collection focused on African metalwork.
A modest yet expressive object, illustrating the Bamileke mastery of iron forging and the quiet elegance of utilitarian ritual forms.
Highlights
- Authentic Bamileke iron bell
- Internal clapper present
- Forged iron with balanced proportions
- Regular, attractive oxidation patina
- Compact format (H 27 cm)
- Functional object with sculptural presence
- Offered without reserve
Seller's Story
For more than 30 years, I have collected African art with a focus on authenticity, symbolism, and refined craftsmanship.
Graduated as an engineer from École Centrale de Paris, I combine the rigor of my technical background with a lifelong passion for artistic expression and cultural heritage.
Founder of AS’ART (dedicated to contemporary handmade design) and Artifacts Gallery (devoted to ancient tribal art and ethnographic objects), I bring together two worlds: the vitality of today’s artisans and the timeless heritage of Africa’s past.
Every piece I present is chosen for its artistic quality, cultural significance, and emotional power.
Origin: Bamileke people
Region/Country: Cameroon
Material: Iron
Height: 27 cm
Dating: Mid 20th century
Provenance: Private collection
Condition: Very good overall condition; regular oxidation patina; original internal clapper present — see photos.
Description
An elegant iron bell from the Bamileke people of Cameroon, fitted with its original internal clapper.
Such bells were used in a variety of contexts, including ceremonial practices, community signaling, and sometimes musical or rhythmic accompaniment during gatherings. Forged from iron, this example combines functional clarity with a strong sculptural presence.
The surface displays a beautiful, even oxidation patina, the result of age and use, which enhances the object’s authenticity and visual depth. With its compact height of 27 cm, this bell is an appealing piece for display, perfectly suited to a cabinet or collection focused on African metalwork.
A modest yet expressive object, illustrating the Bamileke mastery of iron forging and the quiet elegance of utilitarian ritual forms.
Highlights
- Authentic Bamileke iron bell
- Internal clapper present
- Forged iron with balanced proportions
- Regular, attractive oxidation patina
- Compact format (H 27 cm)
- Functional object with sculptural presence
- Offered without reserve
Seller's Story
For more than 30 years, I have collected African art with a focus on authenticity, symbolism, and refined craftsmanship.
Graduated as an engineer from École Centrale de Paris, I combine the rigor of my technical background with a lifelong passion for artistic expression and cultural heritage.
Founder of AS’ART (dedicated to contemporary handmade design) and Artifacts Gallery (devoted to ancient tribal art and ethnographic objects), I bring together two worlds: the vitality of today’s artisans and the timeless heritage of Africa’s past.
Every piece I present is chosen for its artistic quality, cultural significance, and emotional power.
Details
Ethnic group/ culture
Bamileke
Country of Origin
Cameroon
Period
Mid 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Iron Bell — Bamileke people, Cameroon — With Internal Clapper — H 27 cm
Sold by
