Namchi Wood Fertility Doll, Based

In northern Cameroon, a young woman might be given a doll to carry and care for, in the hope of bearing children.

This Namchi fertility doll was made in the 20th century of carved wood and glass beads. The dark wooden body stands a foot tall, with a rounded head and a small, stylized face. Dense strands of glass beads in red, yellow, blue, green and white are layered over it. A woven fiber sash is set with cowrie shells, brass bells and medallions. A stack of metal rings sits at the waist, with dark seed pods and long white strands falling to the base. A black stand holds it upright.

Dressed for the occasion, and every occasion after.