Bamun Palm Wine Gourd Antiqu African Container Cameroon

A Remarkable Old Bamun Palm Wine Gourd Vessel, Exceptional Condition
Antique African Tribal Art - Utilitarian Container - Cameroon Grasslands

Collected from the: Bamun peoples of the Cameroon Grasslands, West Africa
Material: Gourd, pigment, residue from use
Period: Early 20th century
Dimensions: 16" height, 10.5" outermost diameter; weight is 0.65 ounces
Condition: Exceptional, NO damage or repair! Held in a vaulted private collection, the near perfect condition reflects the obvious high regard the original owner held for this splendid piece. Exquisite signs of age and extensive wear from authentic tribal use, gorgeous dark patina augmented by liberal traces of pigment, indigenous soil, and accumulated fine residue of time and use. Make special note of the glorious burnished skin oil patina that produced a rich luster around the snout handle - sublime! Ginzberg notes, "The Cameroon gourds are used particularly for palm wine. The elegant natural forms (which can be influenced while still growing) are sometimes enhanced by weaving straw reeds around them, used for gripping. The intricate woven patterns can be seen as a work of art in itself."

Please to fully appreciate this delightful piece!