Bamiléké Beaded Headdress Crest Panther 41 cm - African Art
This Bamiléké beaded headdress crest featuring a panther motif is an African art piece offered in good condition. It measures 41 cm, making it suitable for display or collection within an antiques or traditional arts category. Free shipping is included with this listing. Check the listing for details on age, materials, provenance, and any visible wear or repairs, as specifications are not provided in the description.
| Location | Valbonne FR |
| Shipping | Free shipping (check listing for details) |
| Seller |
thidai-0
100.0% positive · 396 feedback
|
| Listing | FixedPrice · Active |
| Start time | 2025-10-19T10:13:06.000Z |
| Authenticity | Original |
| Country of Origin | Cameroon |
| Height | 41 cm |
| Length | 97 cm |
| Material | Wood, Glass Beads, Wicker |
| Origin | Africa |
| Period | 1990 and after |
| Type | Headdress |
| Unit of measurement | Kg |
| Unit quantity | 1 |
| Weight | 2,732 kg |
| Width | 47 cm |
From a chiefdom. Total length with tail unfolded 97cmA basic structure is carved from wood, or wicker, and then covered, above a rabane canvas, with a multi-colored pearl mesh. The leopard forms a recurring pattern as it symbolizes royal qualities. Once killed, the feline's skins and teeth returned to the king. Located in the border region of Nigeria, the Northwest Province of Cameroon, "Grassland" consists of several ethnicities. Several centralized chiefdoms, or kingdoms, based on customary associations, secret societies, organize around the Fon which has broad powers. Among Bamileke of Sudan-Bantu origin as in other ethnic groups, art objects testified to their owner's place in society.Bamiléké masks seek potency by teaming up with animals. The secret society organizes around the "Fon" who had broad supernatural powers including being able to turn into animals such as python, monkey, elephant, leopard or buffalo.These masks are worn at cultural ceremonies, including funerals, weddings, farm festivals, and other important events. They are used to represent ancestral spirits. The dancers who wear these masks perform specific dances that tell stories, honor ancestors, and communicate with the spiritual world.
