Bamileke Ceremonial Lidded Figural Vessel

A crowd, carved in relief, and a good many more of them holding up the floor.

This ceremonial lidded figural vessel is Bamileke, from Cameroon, and dates to the 20th century. It is wood. In Bamileke kingdoms of the Cameroon Grassfields, large carved objects often served as displays of a ruler's standing, and figures were used to tell of rank and authority. Here broad-faced figures tumble over the bulging body, gripping staffs and each other. Lower down, others stand in openwork around a ring base. The lid is a lattice of pierced diamonds, topped by a tall loop. Sixty inches high and 27 across.

No one in this crowd is looking at you. They have work to do.