Old Matakam (Mafa) Amulet – Mandara Mountains, Nord Cameroon

Late 19th – early 20th century. Height: 5.2 cm (2.05 in); width: 4.7 cm (1.85 in). Weight: 20.2 g (0.71 oz). Dark metal with an old patina (copper alloy or copper-rich iron); two flat, symmetrical spirals made from hammered and coiled metal wire.

Within the Matakam/Mafa cultural context, the spiral is generally interpreted as a symbol of vital energy, continuity, and cyclical movement, as well as balance between opposing forces. The mirrored double spiral reinforces concepts of complementary duality and cosmic stability.

The Mafa (historically also known as Matakam) are a Chadic-speaking people living primarily in the Mandara Mountains, between northern Cameroon and northeastern Nigeria. Their traditional society is based on highly structured mountain farming communities, characterized by a rich ritual and symbolic culture. Metalworking, pottery, and body ornaments played a central role in Mafa social and religious life. Metal objects, often made of iron or copper, served protective, identity-related, and ritual functions, and were an important means of symbolic expression and cultural affiliation.

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