Large Namchi doll with beaded decoration - Cameroon

Description

Impressive Namchi doll from Cameroon, richly decorated with beads and cowries. This expressive sculpture exudes ritual power and is ideal for collectors of authentic African art.

Origin & meaning
The Namchi (or Namji) from Cameroon are known for their wooden dolls that served as protective figures and ritual objects. This specimen is exceptionally richly decorated with hundreds of multicoloured beads and a coiffure with cowries. Striking is the angular, stylised face with subtle facial lines that give the figure a powerful and almost spiritual appearance. The beadwork and shells symbolise status, beauty and spiritual power. The doll cannot stand on its own and was presumably placed or tied in ritual context.

Dimensions & condition
Height: 38 cm
Width: 15 cm
Depth: 8 cm
Cannot stand independently.
Condition: good, with signs of use appropriate to age and ritual use.