Fang Bwiti Fetish Figure

Wrapped in leather, bound in cord, and not talkative. Bwiti is a spiritual tradition widely practiced among the Fang and their neighbors in Cameroon and Gabon, and objects bound in materials like leather were made to hold and protect power.

This figure was made of iron and leather in Cameroon in the 20th century. Nine inches tall, it is a compact, wrapped bundle with a small knob at the top, short pointed arms and two pointed legs below. The leather is crossed and bound with thin cords, and a round disc forms the underside. The surface is weathered gray and reddish brown, with clear signs of age and handling.

It is keeping something to itself. Respect that.