Bamileke Divination Bowl Cameroon
Width: 8.0
Depth: 10.0
Description
The Bamileke people, hailing from Cameroon's western grasslands, boast a rich cultural tapestry, notably renowned for their divination practices. Central to Bamileke divination is the revered divination bowl, called "tukala" or "nkwa," crafted traditionally from wood and adorned with symbolic patterns. Employed by skilled diviners known as "ngan," these bowls are sacred tools utilized in the divination process. Objects like cowrie shells, seeds, or small bones are cast into the bowl, and the diviner interprets their placement to offer insights and guidance to seekers. Mastery of symbols and patterns aids the diviner's interpretation. These bowls, beyond their functional purpose, carry immense cultural and spiritual significance, often passed through generations as ancestral treasures. Valued for their craftsmanship, they can also serve as decorative pieces in homes and cultural exhibits, embodying the heritage of the Bamileke community.
138726
Approximate Age: 20th Century
People: ["Bamileke"]
Country of Origin: Cameroon
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners