19thc hand carved hardwood African Bamileke ceremonial bed (or coffee table)

19thc hand carved hardwood African Bamileke ceremonial bed (or coffee table)
Code: LVS1491

Dimensions:W: 211cm (83.1")H: 47cm (18.5")D: 64.8cm (25.5")
£8,500.00
Approx $11502.03, €9883.72
*Insured mainland UK delivery included in list price*

A late 19th century (circa 1900) hand carved hardwood African Bamileke ceremonial bed (or ideal as a large coffee table).

This wonderful carved Bamileke bed is handmade from a single hollowed out hardwood tree trunk and consists of a pierced lattice headrest with carved small face decoration above with a further carved border of small faces and five carved stylised figures above.

The bed with wonderful dry patina, the foot of the bed with carved decoration with a border of carved small faces around the sides and foot of the bed.

The sides profusely carved and pierced with faces and stylised figures with a border of small faces to the base, the faces and figures symbolising ancestors, warriors and spirits.

The ceremonial bed of a Bamileke King or Chief was a sacred and spiritual place where the King would receive spiritual direction and sometimes visions from his ancestors.

The Bamileke are the largest ethnic group in the Cameroon and inhabit the West and North West region of the Country, traditionally farmers growing crops, they are also known for their entrepreneurial skills and for their rich cultural traditions including intricate artworks, elaborate ceremonies and social structure of Kingdoms which are ruled by Chiefs.

Their artworks relate to Kings and important chiefs who defined their powers by displaying prestige objects during ceremonies, the ceremonial beds and stools were the most important of these objects, a common motif used in these was the human figure – the figures and faces being symbolic of a warrior, ancestor or spirit.

This highly decorative ceremonial bed is in very good condition for age, is of stable construction and can go straight into a home – it would be a wonderful standalone piece of art, a statement piece or ideal as a large sculptural coffee table.

Size:

Height: 18.5'' / 47cm

13.5'' / 34.25cm (flat surface if using as a coffee table)

Width: 83'' / 211cm

Depth: 25.5'' / 64.75cm