Namji Doll - White beaded (1511)

A Namji (Namchi) fertility doll, hand-carved from a single block of African Rosewood — a legume tree native to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Gabon and Equatorial Guinea — into a geometric shape and decorated with white beadwork, metal, fibre, cowrie shells, coins and leather. Each doll is carved with its own stature and facial expression; unadorned versions made by blacksmiths are given to children as toys.

Namji dolls are traditionally given to brides during the wedding ceremony, believed to carry charms that enhance fertility and bring a safe delivery. The bride carries hers as a good-luck charm, and once her wish is granted, it's placed on the family altar or passed down to her daughter.

Size: H 52cm x W 12cm.