Ndamji Beaded Princess Black

Amongst the Ndamji people of Cameroon, unadorned dolls are made by blacksmiths as playthings for young girls. They are also used to mark houses when the Ndamji are at home. Once a girl reaches puberty, the dolls are beaded and dressed with shells, coins and other trinkets and then become fertility dolls, cared for as though a real child. The dolls are characterised by a narrow trunk and head with a shapely body, forming a striking geometric design. Each doll is unique, as variations will occur in details such as hair, waistbands and earrings. Display with other sizes for visual impact.