Tadep or Ancestor Spirit Figure, Based

Tadep or Ancestor Spirit Figure, Based

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A1300-074

Tadep Or Ancestor Spirit Figure

Based

African Tribal

Cameroon

West Africa

Mambila People

Mid 20th C.

Carved And Painted Wood


The Mambila people live in the region bordering Cameroon and Nigeria. Though they have no centralized hierarchical structure, they believe their ancestors intercede to protect the well-being of the living. The tadep figures represent and are created to honor ancestor spirits. They are characterized by a heart-shaped face and a large head lined with short wooden pegs, traditionally carved from a single piece of wood.