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Description
Dimensions: L:78.7in W:12.2in D:2,2in
These shields feature intricate and detailed carvings, reflecting the artistic skills of the Tikar craftsmen. The designs on the shields often incorporate geometric patterns and abstract motifs, which can vary in meaning and symbolism, representing aspects of Tikar cosmology, ancestral spirits, or social status.
The shields are used in various ceremonial and ritual contexts. They are an integral part of traditional dances, performances, and ceremonies, such as initiation rituals or the enthronement of chiefs.
About the Tribe
The Tikar are a Cameroonian ethnic proto-Bantoid Tikar-speaking group. They are primarily found in the Western Grassfields (Bamenda Plateau) and Eastern Grassfields (Fumban) and the Tikar plain of Bankim (Upper Mbam). According to oral history, the Tikar originated in the Arabian peninsula and migrated to the Nile Valley region of modern-day Sudan near Meroe. They then migrated from Sudan to Ntumu, Cameroon's present-day Tikar Plain, and intermarried with the locals. Those who claim Tikar ancestry in the Bamenda Grassfields include Nso and Kom, Bum,Bafut, Oku, Mbiame, Wiya, Tang, War, Mbot, Mbem, Fungom, Weh, Mmen, Bamunka, Babungo, Bamessi, Bamessing, Bambalang, Bamali, Bafanji, Baba (Papiakum), Bangola, Big Babanki, Babanki Tungo, Nkwen, Bambili and Bambui.
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