Namji / Dowayo Fertility Figure – Cameroon – 40 cm – Wood, Glass Beads – Cape Town Gallery Provenance Namji / Dowayo beaded fertility figure – Cameroon A highly expressive and richly decorated Namji / Dowayo figure from Cameroon, carved from dark wood and extensively ornamented with coloured glass beads. The sculpture measures approximately 40 cm in height and has a strong sculptural presence. Its characteristic form includes a highly stylised elongated head, long neck, rigid torso and strongly curved arms and legs. The figure is particularly notable for the richness of its decoration. The body is densely covered with multiple layers of red, yellow and white glass beads, while smaller red beads form elaborate collars and bands around the neck, wrists and ankles. The beadwork is mounted over fibre and/or leather bindings and has developed an attractive aged surface. Namji figures, also known as Dowayo or Namchi figures, originate from northern Cameroon. Comparable examples are traditionally associated with courtship, fertility, protection and the wish for children. Their highly abstract sculptural form and rich personal ornamentation have made them particularly sought after among collectors of African art. Comparable historic examples are documented in specialist Tribal Art auctions. Provenance Purchased by the present owner in 2002 from a Cape Town art gallery, where it was acquired as a high-quality African art object for a private collection. It has remained in the same private collection since that time. Details • Culture / attribution: Namji / Dowayo • Country of origin: Cameroon • Object: fertility / protective figure • Material: carved wood, coloured glass beads, fibre / leather bindings • Height: approx. 40 cm • Mounted on a rectangular wooden display base • Acquisition: Cape Town art gallery, 2002 • Collection: private collection since 2002 Condition Good collected condition with visible age-related patina and wear. The beadwork is extensively preserved. Surface deposits, abrasions and irregularities are visible, particularly between and beneath the bead rows, and contribute to the aged appearance of the object. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description. No restoration is known to the present owner.