The Namji/Namchi people live in north west Cameroon. Cameroon is famous for these fertility dolls. The dolls are held by girls to play, to ensure their fertility and to prepare them for their role as a mother in later life. This doll is made of smooth hardwood and is covered all round with rows of beads and cowrie shells and other wooden items. The second picture shows the back of the doll. Similar dolls are featured in the book: "Isn't S/He a Doll?" - play and ritual in African sculpture, by Elizabeth L.Cameron (and other doll books). 7" high. Cameroon. C.1990's. Makers marks: None.