Cameroon
Tikar

Wood, straw fiber
Mid 20th Century
Length: 16.5 in, Width: 5.5 in, Depth: 4.75 in
Idiophone – Struck Directly  – Bell, Wooden

This wooden bell comes from the Tikar people, possibly from Cameroon. The term Tikar is used loosely to include several ethic groups in Cameroon. Other Tikar groups may included groups in the Northwest Region near the Nigerian border. 

The carved head finial displays a high coiffure that extends in the back.  This bell shows cracking at the bottom from usage and aging.  Bells serve as musical instruments and as works of sculptural significance in religious and secular ceremonial functions of the Tikar people.