Ceremonial Pipe - Bamoun - Cameroon






With almost a decade of experience bridging science, museum curation, and traditional blacksmithing, Julien has developed a unique expertise in historical arms, armour, and African art.
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Ceremonial Pipe from Cameroon, attributed to the Bamoun people, in terracotta with clay, wood and bone details, late 20th century, 49 cm high, 16 cm wide and 16 cm deep, weighing 1500 g, in good condition and linked to Fon regalia.
Description from the seller
The peoples of the Cameroon Grassfields (West Africa) developed a rich tradition in the visual arts that expressed the social and political hierarchy of the many chiefdoms and kingdoms of the region. The Fon, or king, held the highest rank, followed in importance by the title-holders, including women, of the royal lineages.
Prestige pipes made of clay / terracotta, such as this one, were part of the regalia of Fons and title-holders. They were made on commission for a patron and were cared for, and carried after, their owners by retainers. They were also displayed as status objects on ceremonial occasions. Prestige pipes would have been kept in the royal treasury at the Fon’s palace, located at the geographical center of the kingdom. These objects provided a record of the kingdom’s past and affirmed a pattern of culture based on the Fon’s preeminence.
Good condition.
Shipping within 24 hours after the payment is received. Tracking number will be provided. Signature upon delivery. Fully insured.
May as well be viewed and picked up in Vessem (NL).
Seller's Story
The peoples of the Cameroon Grassfields (West Africa) developed a rich tradition in the visual arts that expressed the social and political hierarchy of the many chiefdoms and kingdoms of the region. The Fon, or king, held the highest rank, followed in importance by the title-holders, including women, of the royal lineages.
Prestige pipes made of clay / terracotta, such as this one, were part of the regalia of Fons and title-holders. They were made on commission for a patron and were cared for, and carried after, their owners by retainers. They were also displayed as status objects on ceremonial occasions. Prestige pipes would have been kept in the royal treasury at the Fon’s palace, located at the geographical center of the kingdom. These objects provided a record of the kingdom’s past and affirmed a pattern of culture based on the Fon’s preeminence.
Good condition.
Shipping within 24 hours after the payment is received. Tracking number will be provided. Signature upon delivery. Fully insured.
May as well be viewed and picked up in Vessem (NL).
