Art in CONTEXT

The most distinctive feature of this costume is its mask: its large circular ear flaps and narrow central panel create an iconic representation of an elephant. For the Bamileke, the elephant is a royal symbol. Its unparalleled strength and dignity provide a natural metaphor for power.

The Bamileke, who today number approximately 700,000, live in the Western Grasslands of Cameroon. Like many cultural groups of West Africa, theirs is a society governed by royalty. Many objects identified as "art" from a Western perspective are actually designed to affirm royal power. This ensemble -- mask, headdress, tunic and fly whisk -- would have functioned in just such a way.

The mask and costume are exclusively owned and used by the Kuosi society, whose secret membership includes many of a community's most wealthy and high ranking men. Worn only at special ceremonies, such as a society member's funeral or a biennial public celebration, this visually impressive ensemble not only affirms the king's authority, but also reminds him of the watchful presence of the Kuosi, formerly a warrior society. The Kuosi society's power is suggested by the symbolism of the elephant -- whose powerful persona the wearer would assume during ceremonial use. Likewise, the high social status of its members is represented by the lavish use of imported beads, once a rare and expensive material in Africa.

Eileen Carr

SUGGESTED READING:

Suzanne Prestion Blier. The Royal Arts of Africa: The Majesty of Form. New York: Harry N. Abrams, 1998.

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