How to pronounce“bamileke”in English

Although the subject of this mask is an elephant, to understand its larger meaning, we have to put it in the context of the Bamileke culture—where powerful animals like elephants are associated

The mask’s style — meaning, its distinct combination of form and composition — is signature Bamileke.

We don’t get to see the mask in that original context, but visitors to the Brooklyn Museum, where it’s housed, can admire it next to other Bamileke beadwork, as well as artwork