Welcome to KomGlobal
Kom
Location: Northwestern Cameroon Population: 30,000
Language: Kom (Macro-Bantu)
Neighboring Peoples: Babanki, Bafum, Wum
Types of Art:In recognition of the importance of the skull, representations of the head are found in nearly all decorated utilitarian items. Masks used in initiation and for education purposes are common. Statuary often represents the Fon, and many types of beaded and ivory objects, including stools which symbolize the seat of royal power are related to the Fon's investiture.
Political Systems:The Kom, like all of the peoples who make up the Cameroon Grasslands culture area, pay allegiance to the head chief (Fon). Each village is governed by a leader who is selected by his predecessor and who is usually the head of the dominant lineage within that community. Each Fon is served by a council of elders who advise him on all important decisions and who also play an important role in the selection of the next Fon. Most chiefs serve for a lifetime, abdicating the throne or stool only when nearing death. Complex age-grade societies also help to structure the community. The Fon also oversees these secret societies.
Credits: Christopher D. Roy, Professor of the History of Art, The University of Iowa
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