BAMUM Beaded Throne Ensemble (190 cm — Kounden Earth-Taboo Royal Regalia)

An imposing, 190 cm tall royal throne encased in geometric glass beadwork and copper plating. It is flanked by two large wooden trumpets carved in the shape of elephant tusks and accompanied by a pair of beaded royal slippers.

1. Aesthetic Style and Multimedia Splendor

This throne from the Kounden Chiefdom is an elaborate example of Grassfields multimedia art. The underlying wooden structure is covered by a detailed mosaic of imported glass beads and sheets of hammered copper. Consistent with Hornek's observations, 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. Hornek notes that the "tusk" trumpets recall historical eras of Grassfields elephant hunting, framing the chief as the master of the wild. Hornek documents 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 Verification

The ensemble exhibits varied aging. The glass beads show fading consistent with intermittent exposure to the sun during outdoor royal festivals. The hammered copper elements have developed a dark verdigris. The wooden "tusk" trumpets display a smoothed handling patina, and the beaded slippers show compression and 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 and rare example of Grassfields royal pageantry.