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More About the 19^th Century Cameroon Throne

The throne, a symbol of power used for ceremonial purposes by the tribal leaders in sub-Saharan Cameroon, was received by the Nelson Atkins in a severely deteriorated condition.

Above: The front view provides a glimpse of the seat and lower ring. Upon receipt, the seat had very little of the original beading intact. Click here for detail of the restored seat.

Below: The rear view gives a better view of the damaged lower ring. Jensen Conservation reconstructed the ring and the bead pattern, relying on the 1957 photo as a guide. Click here for a detail of the lower ring after restoration.

This 1957 photograph is the only known image of the throne in complete form. A close examination reveals deterioration of the bead and shell pattern. Click here for detail.

Below:Transporting the Throne

Below: The lower ring during restoration. Note the preservation of the extant beading.