Statue (Bamileke).
Cameroon.
Wood, encrusted patina, crust, height: 59 cm.
S. & J. Calmeyn Collection.
Dschang, home of the Bamileke and western Bangwa, is
where these ritual sticks of the Lefemsociety were found
lining the path to the chefferie’s sacred area, which was
forbidden for villagers. The Lefemsecret society was
composed of important people who paid a high price for
the right of entry; therefore, along with other communal
activities, they are in charge of organising the royal and
princely funerals.
The stick is topped with the shape of a seated Fwaking,
his face is proportionally oversized with large eyelids and a
half-open mouth, he is adorned with a hat and bracelets
which were common attire of the time.