
Description
The peoples of the Cameroon Grassfields (West Africa) developed a rich tradition in the visual arts that expressed the social and political hierarchy of the many chiefdoms and kingdoms of the region. The Fon, or king, held the highest rank, followed in importance by the title-holders, including women, of the royal lineages.
Prestige pipes such as this one, were part of the regalia of Fons and title-holders. They were made on commission for a patron and were cared for, and carried after, their owners by retainers. They were also displayed as status objects on ceremonial occasions. Prestige pipes would have been kept in the royal treasury at the Fon’s palace, located at the geographical center of the kingdom. These objects provided a record of the kingdom’s past and affirmed a pattern of culture based on the Fon’s preeminence.
Good condition with traces of tribal use.
Object
Ceremonial Pipe
Ethnic group:
Bamun
Country:
Cameroon
Material:
Bone, Clay
Estimated period:
Mid 20th century
Sold with stand:
No
Dimensions:
49x16x16 cm
Weight:
1500 gram
Condition:
Good condition, used with some signs of wear
Reserve: $250.00
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $59.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from The Netherlands
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Prestige pipes such as this one, were part of the regalia of Fons and title-holders. They were made on commission for a patron and were cared for, and carried after, their owners by retainers. They were also displayed as status objects on ceremonial occasions. Prestige pipes would have been kept in the royal treasury at the Fon’s palace, located at the geographical center of the kingdom. These objects provided a record of the kingdom’s past and affirmed a pattern of culture based on the Fon’s preeminence.
Good condition with traces of tribal use.
Object
Ceremonial Pipe
Ethnic group:
Bamun
Country:
Cameroon
Material:
Bone, Clay
Estimated period:
Mid 20th century
Sold with stand:
No
Dimensions:
49x16x16 cm
Weight:
1500 gram
Condition:
Good condition, used with some signs of wear
Reserve: $250.00
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Ceremonial Pipe – Clay, Bone – Bamun – Cameroon
Estimate $300-$350
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Decorative Tribal Art Sale
Feb 26, 2026 1:00 PM ESTNew York, NY, United States
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