Cameroon
Bamiléké head
As is often the case in my creations, the lamp bases I use are linked to travels that have inspired me.
Lamp with Bamiléké head
A beaded Bamiléké head is much more than just an art object. It embodies the essence of the rich cultural tradition of the Grassfields region of northwest Cameroon, where art is intimately linked to belief systems and social structures. These works, often associated with royal courts or secret societies, play a fundamental role in the transmission of ancestral values and knowledge.
The heads I use are molded by craftsmen in clay, with stylized human features. The proportions are slightly exaggerated, emphasizing certain aspects such as the eyes, lips or forehead.
The surface of the head is meticulously covered with thousands of colorful beads, a skill handed down from generation to generation. The motifs are inherited from Bamiléké cosmology, symbolizing world order, harmony and the relationship between the living, ancestors and divinities.
The faces bear an expression of serenity or wisdom, symbolizing power and dignity. The eyes are enlarged to reflect clairvoyance or spiritual connection. The headdress is integrated into the head and covered with pearls. It represents traditional headdresses worn by Bamileke chiefs.
As an objet d’art, this head illustrates the incredible mastery of Bamiléké craftsmen and their deep respect for cultural heritage.
As a lamp base, the Bamiléké head embodies a bold yet respectful reinterpretation of African art. I wanted to bear witness to the way in which traditional craftsmanship can transcend cultural boundaries to find a place in a variety of environments, while maintaining its symbolic depth.
