Robe for a Chief or Dignitary Togho
Bamileke People, Cameroon
Mid 20th century (circa 1950)
Imported, machine woven cotton, locally dyed with indigo, appliqué, embroidery
46 x 93.5 inches 117 x 236 cm)
Wrought in an abstracted style, the intricate appliquéd designs evoke important symbolic insignia, such as the kwifo double gong that is emblematic of the voice and leadership of the ruler, the fon, and his governing societies.
That motif is the most explicit, but the large circle of incisor teeth implied by the negative pointed shapes is equally suggestive of the leopard fang necklace worn exclusively by the heads of the highest-ranking families in chieftancies such as the Oku Kingdom in the western Grasslands. Rows of colorful, fine embroidery around the neck opening similarly recall the multiple strands of beaded necklaces that are part of ceremonial and office-holding regalia.
Price on Request
