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Large doll made of a phallic-shaped wooden structure. The entire body is covered with glass beads. The head is covered with string hair ending in a small blue bead. A bun at the top is represented by a white bead and an old one Penny Georges V ( BRITISH WEST AFRICA ). The legs and arms are made up of cowrie shells, pearls and a coin. The statue wears a wrought-iron bell around the neck. A brass, copper and iron sex cover is placed in front of the statue, while on its right it carries a piece of leather depicting a satchel. Interestingly, the sex cover is a feminine attribute, while the satchel is a masculine one for the Fali.
This statue is called "Ham pilu" (wooden child), like the small fertility statues of the same shape. This large one was offered for a couple's engagement. It was supposed to ensure that the couple would have beautiful offspring (boys and girls), that evil spirits would be warded off and that they would enjoy good fortune. In short, a bright future for the bride and groom!
This statue is much more complex than it first appears. Its symbolism is very rich and it's a fine cultural testimony to this region of Africa.
Dense wood with worn patina, glass beads, iron, leather, string, brass, copper, cowries and coins.
Height: 65 cm
Fali or Fali-Kirdi people, Cameroon
Mid-twentieth century
Ref: L04SBR2PYQ