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John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, photography credit Joel Benjamin
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, photography credit Joel Benjamin
Bust of a Man
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, photography credit Joel Benjamin
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Bust of a Man

Artifact IDMO 63.468
Object Type Sculpture
Date 1900-1962
Date Presented3/13/62
Gifter
Place MadeCameroon, Africa
Medium Wood
DimensionsOverall H 13 1/2 in x W 5 1/2 in (34.3 cm x 14 cm )
Physical DescriptionThe sculpture is hand carved from a single piece of dense, solid ebony (blackwood) The head has an elongated face with stylized almond-shaped eyes with thick eyelids, a broad nose, full, pronounced lips, and square chin. The ebony surface is highly polished. A defining feature of this particular regional style is the striking, elevated central crest hairstyle running down the middle of the head, paired with smooth, neatly stylized hair on the sides.
Historical NoteOn March 13, 1962, President John F. Kennedy hosted Cameroon’s first president, Ahmadou Ahidjo, for a historic official state visit at the White House. Kennedy welcomed the young African leader as a vital voice for continental unity, praising Cameroon's strategic role as a geopolitical hinge between West and Central Africa. Their high-level diplomatic talks focused on Cold War neutrality, African decolonization, and economic partnership, culminating in crucial American financial aid to construct the trans-Cameroonian railroad. This pivotal encounter solidified early diplomatic ties between the two nations and underscored the Kennedy administration's active engagement with newly independent African states.
This sculpture was presented to President Kennedy by Ahmadou Ahidjo, President of the United Republic of Cameroon (1960-1982), during his State Visit to the White House on March 13, 1962.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteItem was a gift from a foreign official to the President and First Lady received through the Executive office during the Kennedy Administration and transferred to the General Service Administration where it was held until donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts from Heads of State (National Archives Identifier 1677008)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Not on view
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