Volta Region of Ghana and parts of Togo
Ewe

Wood and Bronze
19th century
Height 15.75 inches”
Idiophone – Struck Directly  – Metal Bell

The gankogui, also known as gakpevi, is a double bell instrument invented by the Ewe people of West Africa.  The Akan people refer to this instrument as akonko.  The Ewe mainly live in the Volta Region of Ghana and parts of Togo on the other side of the border.  The gankogui is the skeleton, backbone, and foundation of all traditional Ewe music.  Apart from drumming groups of entertainment, this musical instrument, as seen here, was used for ritual or ceremonial functions, and was placed in a shrine.  When played, its’ sounds called the gods and spirits for help and advice.  It was also used when messengers walked through villages, playing a certain bell pattern/rhythm on the gankogui to call the villagers to gather for an announcement by the local chief or king.

The wooden carved handle of this ritual gankogui shows ornate carving and a finial on top.  Surface suggests age and usage.