Cameroon Grassfields Ceremonial Bronze Bell Armlet, Bamum Kingdom,Circa: 1880–1920

A rare ceremonial bronze bell armlet from the Cameroon Grassfields, attributed to the Bamum (Bamoun) Kingdom. Cast using the lost-wax technique in the late 19th to early 20th century, this sculptural ornament was designed to be worn in court and ritual contexts, where sound signified authority and rank. The integral hollow bells activate through movement, transforming gesture into sound. Collected in the field by the German ethnologist Hans Himmelheber and later acquired directly from him by Egon Guenther, the armlet retains its original painted inventory mark “HH,” confirming its documented provenance. Period losses to two bells are present, consistent with age and use, and do not detract from the integrity or collectability of the piece.

Details
•   Origin: Cameroon, Grassfields regio
•   Culture: Bamum (Bamoun)
•   Circa: 1880–1920
•   Material: Cast bronze
 •  Technique: Lost-wax casting

Dimensions & Weight
•   Width across bells: 145 mm
•   Height (opening to top of central bell): 114 mm
•   Internal width: 62 mm
•   Internal height: 49 mm
•   Weight: 453 g