Ghana/Togo
Ewe

Metal-iron
Mid 20th century
Length:  10 inches
Idiophone – Struck Directly  – Double Metal Bells

This Ewe double prong iron bell is called “Gankogui,” also known as agogo bell, double bell, or hi-low bell. It is used traditionally in a variety of West African and Brazilian percussion ensembles and is believed to originally come from the Ewe people of Ghana/Togo.

By striking the bells with a mallet or beater a two-pitch song is created. It is often used to keep time for the drummer, dancers, and singers. Each gankogui is of hand-forged iron.