In Africa, dolls are of great cultural significance. Apart from their distinctive appearances, dolls have diverse functions. They are used as good luck charms and amulets, decorations, gifts, playthings, ritual practices, and family heirlooms. Namji Dolls, also known as Dowayo Dolls are fertility dolls native to the Namji tribe of North Cameroon. The blacksmiths of this tribe make this doll from carved African Rosewood. Namji Dolls date as far back as 1940.

Namji Dolls are carved from African Rosewood, a legume tree native to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea. A single block of African Rosewood wood is hand carved into a geometric shape and decorated with multicolored beads, metals, fiber, cowrie shells, coins, and even leather. Each doll is carved with a unique stature and facial expression.  Originating from the Dowayo/ Namji ethnic group in Cameroon, Namji Dolls feature rounded geometric forms, beaded necklaces, and cowrie shell decoration. The dolls are historically made for young girls who sling dolls over their backs to mirror the responsibility of their own mothers. Namji Dolls are also kept by older women to promote fertility. Style your Namji atop a stack of coffee table books or nestled into a group of picture frames. As standalone pieces or groupings, these dolls are lovely gift items, especially to fashionable friends who decorate themselves with confidence and Namji Doll-style and flair.

Height: 14-15 Inches