The Bamileke number 700,000 people who live in the grasslands of southwest Cameroon, and they are ruled by kings. The buffalo motif in the base of the bowl suggests ownership by a king (fon). This unique bowl would likely have been used by the fon for offering kola nuts and palm wine to guests. This elaborate bowl would be an object of prestige in the grassfields kingdoms. The forward leaning open smiling mouth is typical of Bamileke art, and the hairstyle is typical of the Bamileke and Bamun peoples.