In the Cameroon Grasslands, powerful animal imagery is associated with the wealth and prestige of rulers. For the Bamileke, the leopard – a cunning, fast and guardedly aggressive animal – was the most important royal icon. It was believed that the king (fon) could temporarily transform himself into this feared predator.
This early Bamileke stool, carved from a dense, extremely heavy wood, prominently places the leopard at its centre. Between the circular seat and base of the stool, the carver has wonderfully depicted a leopard in a crouching stance.
Ex Private Collection, UK
Estimated Period: Early 20th Century or Before
Height: 41cm
Width: 40cm
Condition Report: Traditional restoration to the seat of the stool.
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