Ritual fertility doll — Carved in Wood with Metal Adornments Both the Bagirmi and the Kenga inhabit the historical region once belonging to the Kingdom of Baguirmi, southeast of Lake Chad. Their tribal art differs markedly from the traditional wooden statues found in West or Southern Africa. This piece has an abstract, stylised form and served as a fertility doll. It was cared for by women wishing to conceive or used in female initiation rituals. It is distinguished by its elongated head with clearly defined circular eyes, and by carved or applied ornaments resembling the traditional earrings and chest pendants of Central Africa. The dark patina and wear around the centre of the body indicate prolonged, repeated handling during rituals over generations.