This elegant jug is believed to have been made by one of the Grasslands people of Cameroon. It is a classical design in most regards, with a pedestal base, a globular body, a tall neck and a flared mouth with pinched spout. The body is further joined to the lip by a deeply curved handle rising from the shoulder. The form is not especially diagnostic. However, the body is decorated with an exceptionally dynamic buffalo’s head, with the eyes – which are made in the likeness of cowrie shells, money in the Grasslands area – and horns swept back menacingly. These motifs are known for the Tabwa people, but especially for the Bamileke, and are especially associated with kingship. Buffalo masks are exceptionally important to the Bamileke, and are the property of the king.
Its function is bound to have been something more than secular, presumably performing some form of ritual device for the application of libations or something similar. The shape resembles a European milk jug, and may reflect post-colonial tastes. This is a striking piece of African art.