Bamum Brass Bell, Cameroon

Description of Significance:

The ceremonial art of the Bamun people in Cameroon is rich and diverse, reflecting a long-standing tradition of craftsmanship and cultural expression. The Bamun Kingdom is one of over one hundred different kingdoms in the Cameroon Grasslands, each with its own distinctive art forms and cultural practices. These kingdoms have been in existence since the 13th century and have a long tradition of royal patronage of the arts.

Ceremonial art in the Bamun Kingdom includes prestigious objects like bells, drinking horns, and trumpets for ceremonial use, and royal ancestor figures that are displayed during ceremonies for their expressive artistic value. These objects are not only used in ceremonies but also serve as symbols of authority and prestige. 

The figure at the top of the bell may represent a significant personage, possibly a royal figure or a deity, given the intricate headpiece and detailed attire. The Bamun are known for their hierarchical society and the veneration of their kings or 'Fons', and this figure may reflect that social structure. The motifs and designs on the figure's garment and the bell's surface could be indicative of Bamun iconography, which often includes geometric patterns, spiral motifs, and depictions of faces and figures that hold cultural and spiritual significance.

The bell's form is elegant and well-crafted, which is consistent with the Bamun's renowned metalworking skills. Historically, such bells could have been used in courtly ceremonies or for communication purposes within the royal palace. The patina on the brass suggests age and usage, which could mean that this bell has been part of many ceremonies and has likely been handled by members of the Bamun community over the years.

Origin:

• Handcrafted in Cameroon

Dimensions (inches):

• Depth: 3.5"
• Width: 4"
• Height: 15.5"
• Dimensions do NOT include the wooden base in the photos

Materials: 

• Brass
• Textile handle at rear 

About Antique African Art:

Hemingway Gallery regards antique African art as the best artistic expression of aesthetic beauty and storytelling throughout the known history of art. Aside from artistic taste, African art accrues value in different ways than other genres, including use in ceremonial settings as well as age. 50 years can be regarded as old or antique when it comes to wood masks and totems. Hemingway Gallery provides both authoritative insight and context into each artifact in the collection, possessing and readily exhibiting direct, intimate knowledge of the source and pedigree. The goal is to preserve and curate one-of-a-kind artifacts of importance while creating a platform for the acquisition of spectacular unique pieces within financial reach.

Our Pricing:

Hemingway Gallery ethically sources all the fine art in our collection. Our pricing correlates directly to the asking prices of artists, artisans and art dealers in the various African countries we collect from and the costs of importing the artwork to the U.S. We need to change the idea that artists should be paid pennies for their fine art just because it comes from Africa. Paying a fair price in Africa  is our number one priority and our pricing reflects that. 

Shipping:

• Shipped with FedEx Ground: $45
• A declared value is included in the shipping so a signature is required for delivery.
• We ship around the world! Our website is still new and is not yet processing automatic international shipping rates. Please contact us directly for custom shipping quotes outside the mainland USA (including Hawaii and Alaska).

Further Information:

Please email us at info@hemingwayafricangallery.com or call 212-838-3650 with the SKU # for further information on this piece.