Although this pipe has the overall appearance of a ceremonial tobacco-smoking pipe it is never smoked, but serves solely
as a ceremonial prestige object . Copper alloy objects were
used as regalia of office, and were traded in restricted quantity from the markets of Bali, Baffusan, and Bamoun. The technique of lost-wax casting is believed to have originated among the
Tikar of the Upper Mbam Valley, east of the Grasslands.Theses pipes are among the most visible royal regalia. Their length, seize, and iconography are features that are closely identified with an individual’s overall status. Some pipes are over four
feet long. Persons of lesser ranks are not permitted, for status and religious reasons to see the king smoke, or smoke in
front of him.
Bamun / Cameroun / Bronze Pipe
late 19th early 20th century
method of casting: Lost Wax Casting
Long: 44 ½ inches
The pipe is presented on a black granite pedestal
H 20" X 12 3/4" X 14 1/4"
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$ 5,900.00
