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Commemorative figure (lefem)
Ateu Atsa (Bangwa, c. 1840–1910)mid-1800s–1910
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Cleveland, United States
Adorned with royal attire consisting of a cap, beaded necklace, folded loincloth, and drinking horn, this figure was carved as a commemorative portrait of a historical king or high dignitary. It was kept by a secret association called <em>Lefem,</em> whose members gathered weekly in a sacred space in the forest to discuss matters related to the welfare of the kingdom. Standing in a royal shrine, the figure witnessed sacrifices made to the skulls of the chief’s ancestors. Meant to safeguard the kingdom and protect the fecundity of its inhabitants, it was also exhibited during funerals and royal ceremonies.
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Details
- Title: Commemorative figure (lefem)
- Creator: Ateu Atsa (Bangwa, c. 1840–1910)
- Date Created: mid-1800s–1910
- Physical Dimensions: Overall: 92.1 x 20.3 cm (36 1/4 x 8 in.)
- Provenance: probably Ateu Atsa, Cameroon, Charles Ratton, Paris, France, Pace Primitive and Ancient Art, New York, NY, Cleveland Museum of Art by purchase 1987
- Type: Sculpture
- Rights: CC0
- External Link: https://clevelandart.org/art/1987.62
- Medium: wood
- Fun Fact: Ateu Atsa was both a famous and infamous artist! It is said that he enraged a ruler by portraying him realistically rather than in an idealized way, and was chased out of town after the sculpture was revealed.
- Department: African Art
- Culture: Africa, Central Africa, Cameroon, Bangwa Kingdom
- Credit Line: Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund
- Collection: African Art
- Accession Number: 1987.62
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