Bali in northwest Cameroon
Bamileke

Wood, hide, fiber rope, woven cloth, black paint
Mid 20th Century
Height: 42 inches; Diameter: 16 inches
Membranophone – Struck (Directly) – Single Headed

Bali in north-west Cameroon, just west of Bamenda is a rural area ruled by a Fon, or local prince.  It is one of the most colorful and interesting corners of Cameroon, with a famous oracle, a yearly festival in honor of the Fon, and an extraordinarily rich artistic tradition which includes the famous elephant masks. Almost the entire artistic production of Bali is related to the Fon.   This high relief Bamileke drum painted black, depicts scenes from daily village life; figures in ritual celebration, and hunting scenes. There are ornamental geometric patterns in a scroll motif appearing on the pedestal (footed) four legs that are bent, indicating knees, and mounted on a circular disc base.   No signs of usage, but have owned this drum since 1970’s.