Cameroonian Monumental Lidded Vessel with Figural Motifs

Five feet of figures, all of them busy, and none of them looking for the exit.

This monumental lidded vessel with figural motifs comes from Cameroon and dates to the 20th century. It is carved wood. Carvers of the Cameroon Grassfields are known for dense figural work on prestige objects made for chiefs and palaces. Dozens of figures in relief crowd the swelling body, many of them carrying staffs or weapons. Below, more figures in openwork seem to bear up the vessel on their heads. An openwork band edges the lid, which is topped by a curved-necked creature. Sixty inches high and 27 across.

Lifting the lid means disturbing the creature. That seems to be the point of it.