Bamileke-Batie Mu'po Female Ritual Figure, Cameroon

A carved wood ritual figure attributed to the Bamileke-Batie peoples of the Cameroon Grasslands, of the type commonly known as mu'po. The figure has a large projecting face with slit-form eyes and heavy lips, a textured coiffure, pendant breasts, bent arms with hands placed near the abdomen, a pronounced rounded belly, and short powerful legs on an integral base. The dark surface shows extensive wear and age-related patina. Likely early to mid-20th century, possibly earlier.