An imposing, 190 cm tall royal throne whose seat and openwork back are covered in geometric glass beadwork and cowrie shells, on a carved dark wooden base with copper-plated elements. It is flanked by two large wooden trumpets carved in the shape of elephant tusks and accompanied by a pair of carved wooden slippers.

1. Aesthetic Style and Multimedia Splendor

This throne from the Kounden Chiefdom is an elaborate example of Grassfields multimedia art. The seat and back are covered by a detailed mosaic of glass beads and cowrie shells, while the openwork base below is carved dark wood. Consistent with the collection catalogue, the intricate beadwork and the copper-plated elements in the lower section contribute to the prestige of this object. The integration of the wooden trumpets — carved to mimic the sweeping curve of ivory elephant tusks — adds a towering, architectural presence.

2. Ritual Function and the Untouchable King

This throne is traditionally associated with significant occasions in the life of the chiefdom. It served as a visual representation of power. The collection catalogue notes that the "tusk" trumpets recall historical eras of Grassfields elephant hunting, framing the chief as the master of the wild. The catalogue adds that the wooden slippers derive from the tradition that the chief was forbidden from letting his bare feet touch the earth — a profound earth-taboo. The entire ensemble — throne, trumpets, and slippers — functioned to physically and spiritually elevate the ruler above the mortal plane.

3. Patina, Material Weathering, and Age

The ensemble exhibits varied aging. The glass beads show fading consistent with intermittent exposure to the sun during outdoor royal festivals. The copper elements have developed a dark patina. The wooden "tusk" trumpets display a smoothed handling patina, and the wooden slippers show wear on the soles, consistent with use by a Kounden chief to observe the traditional earth-taboo.

Summary

This beaded throne ensemble is a significant representation of Bamum divine kingship. The inclusion of the "tusk" trumpets and the taboo-enforcing slippers make it a complete example of Grassfields royal pageantry.