Mambila Tadep or Ancestor Spirit Figure, Based

Details:
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.