Male figure (Bamileke).
Cameroon.
Wood, height: 125 cm.
Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, Preußischer Kulturbesitz,
Museum für Völkerkunde, Berlin.
The swollen belly, which contrasts the skinny arms and
simple feet, is the most striking feature of this seated
wooden figure. Usually, in accordance with this size and
style, figures such as this represent the inaguration of a new
ruler. This particular piece appears to have originated in a
southern kingdom.
From the inauguration, the figures are used in
ceremonial and cult activities which vary greatly depending
on the kingdom. Female figures of this type are also
represented and seem to match the male forms as a pair.
However, the female forms are more varied and are often
depicted as pregnant.
In this case, the distension of the stomach is rather
unusual, even though male commemorative figures usually
have swollen bellies. Though, this should not be viewed as
a case of a hermaphrodite, but rather a regal figure with a
metaphysical dimension.