Throne (1) - Cauris, Glass beads - babanki - Cameroon

Babanki throne Throne with seat resting on three bull heads, decorated with glass beads and backrest formed by a standing man figure, with the body covered with cowries, hands and face covered with glass beads. 19th century. It comes with a certificate of the Ministry of Culture of Cameroon, authenticated by Antoni Bosch notary’s office in Barcelona. Acquired in Yaoundé, Cameroon, in 2005 by the Fundación Vía of Barcelona. In perfect condition. From a private collection. A certificate of origin and age is attached. BABANKI: Farmers, organised around the power of a chief or king, the Fon, with life, inherited power. They have deep respect for ancestors, believe that their spirits are preserved in the skulls, honour them and pass on them to their inheritors. Some cowries are missing from the sculpture, but the item is in perfect condition. Mid 19th century. From a private collection. A certificate of origin and age is attached.