Bamoun Beaded King

The artistic output from the Bamoun of Cameroon is some of the most recognized and lauded in all of Africa. The mediums used by their artisans are as varied as the tribal regalia; from decorated wooden seats to intricately carved tusks to copper plated masks to bronze pipes to horsetail staffs to beaded statues and on and on and on! Bamoun art is known for elaborate embellishments, superior craftsmanship and endless variety.

The Grassland area of Cameroon where the majority of the Bamoun reside is divided into ninety kingdoms governed by the Fon. Most Bamoun art is closely associated with the Fon and his royal court. Large figures, thrones and prestige paraphernalia are used by the king to flaunt his power and to commemorate his ancestors. There was always a fierce competition between sculptors all vying for attention with the court resulting in the creation of extraordinary selections.

Bamoun beaded work is some of the most valued and coveted works by far. The tedious practice of creating and stringing hundreds upon hundreds of tiny spherical beads to form colorful intricate patterns is a true visual wonder. The Bamoun king offered above started out as a carefully carved wooden statue with the Fon sitting upon a stool/throne with drink and regal paraphernalia in hand. The craftsman then covered the figure with a natural fabric that was heavy enough to support the intense white, green, red and blue beading. Certain areas such as the bottom base was purposefully left uncovered exposing a red felt material. Circular cottony tufs were carfully fashioned representing the Fons traditional headdress.

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Dimensions: 18 inches tall x 11 1/2 inches wide x 10 inches deep.