Gabon, Cameroon, and the Republic of Congo
Kwele

Wood, braided rattan, kaolin pigment, red and blue pigment
Mid 20th Century
Length: 21 inches
Idiophone – Struck Directly  – Bell, Wooden

A Kwele wooden figural gong, such as this may be used by a shaman. The Kwele occupy the forest region on the borders of Gabon, Cameroon and the Republic of Congo. They have a strong belief in the Bwete cult. The antidote to witches is the beete ritual, which includes masked performances and objects such as this figural gong used in rituals to reinforce unity and maintain social order. The head carved on the front of the gong has kaolin pigment, associated with light and clarity. There are decorative carvings on the side painted with red and blue pigment. The striker is attached with a rattan fiber cord. There are carving marks on the inside of the bell.