Bracelet

Kom/Tikar Complex, Republic of Cameroon, African

20th century

  • Titles Bracelet (Descriptive)
  • Medium brass, cast
  • Dimensions Overall: 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm) Overall1: 3 in. (7.6 cm)
  • Credit Line Gift of Drs. Noble and Jean Endicott, 1986.885.1
  • Work Type bracelet
  • Classification Jewelry

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Helmet mask with glossy, black surface; coiffure of fine plaits close to the skull leading to thick braid rising from top of head. Prominent, domed forehead, slitted "cowrie shell" shaped eyes, small mouth, nose, and ears; three vertical scarification marks on each cheek. Two bulging rings around neck; base of mask pierced with multiple holes for attachment of fiber costume. Function: Worn by women of the Sande Society during initiation of girls into the society, and on other occasions; morphology of the mask reflects Mende ideals of feminine beauty and power.
Heddle pulley for man's loom; ornamented with geometric designs and male head
Collector number EWLE 32
Hoe or currency blade