“Mother and Child” – Cameroon

Mask in the shape of a body, symbolizing fertility. The mask is painted black, representing power; a chain of half diamonds, painted white as a sign of communion with tribal ancestors, decorates the edge of the lower part of the belly. A small hole indicates the place of the navel, and on either side, also in white, are eyes carved in the shape of fish. A line of diamond shapes runs down the center of the belly, and above it are two delicately carved breasts. The nipples are carved in the shape of a closed mouth, and above them rest a nose and an eye.