Bamun Palm Wine Gourd Antique African Vessel Cameroon

A Beautiful Old Bamun Palm Wine Gourd with Reed Basketry, Excellent Condition
Antique African Art - Utilitarian Container - Cameroon Grasslands

Collected from the: Bamun peoples of the Cameroon Grasslands, West Africa
Material: Gourd, woven reeds, pigment, residue from use
Period: Very early 20th century
Dimensions: 15.75" height, 9" outermost diameter; weight is 1.00 pound
Condition: Excellent, exquisite signs of age, wear and extensive tribal use. Held in private collection since its original 1940's field acquisition, the near perfect condition reflects the obvious high regard the original owner held for this splendid piece. A single hairline frature does not penetrate through to the interior, this area tests stable with no further threat to the integrity of this fine gourd anticipated - see the center photo below for a close inspection. Gorgeous swirls of color from patina, pigment, indigenous soil and the residue of use - the glorious skin oil patina produced a rich luster around the snout handle - an altogether splendid specimen ! 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 old piece!