Teracotta Figure from Camroon

This handcrafted terracotta clay figure hails from the Cameroon region of Africa and was created by the Tikar people. Renowned for their exceptional artistry, the Tikar, along with their neighboring cultures like the Bamum/Bamun and Bamileke, are celebrated for their imaginative and conceptual sculptures.

The figure represents the Pygmies of the forest, and the Tikar people believe these statues embody mystical spirits and powers. They are used for protection and to enhance harvests.

This intricate and detailed piece features a figure standing with hands placed on its belly. The sculpture showcases classic, bulbous features, with the face, torso, and limbs adorned with multiple scarification patterns, adding to its wild and whimsical aesthetic.