Protective Figure
Bafo or Battie, Cameroon
19th Century


This strong yet whimsical figure from the grassland area of Cameroon is an ancient example. The smoothly encrusted patina of this figure is due to repeated rubbings and libations. This was most likely a personal protective charm due to its small size. Note the area around the neck , there is an indentation in the surface that suggests something was tied around it. It most likely held a rope that attached it to a belt or bag to which it was carried. Examples of this age are very hard to come by.

The figure is 4.5 inches tall.

SOLD / IN 10-3-09