Gabon (Upper Ogowe)
Kota-Mindumu/Ondumbo

Brass, wood, cowrie shells, rattan, fabric, leather
Early-Mid 20th century
Height: 19.75 in
Idiophone – Struck Directly  – Double Bell, Wooden

Like many tribes of Africa, the traditions and religion of the Kota is focused upon the ancestors. They believe the skulls and bones of their past chiefs have power over the well-being of the village in the afterlife. Wooden sculptures covered with sheets of copper and brass, known as reliquary or guardian figures are attached to objects that deal with and connects to the ancestors, such as this double bell.

Unlike the other reliquary double bell in this collection, only the head is covered with metal and the body (shoulders) and bells are carved from wood with a chameleon in high relief carved on the outer side of each bell.  Some argue that these figures are an abstract of the deceased individual, while others say they guard and protect the chief’s spirit. Nevertheless, the bones, themselves were sacred and not the wooden objects covered with metal, thus there was no contraction problems with selling these objects for profit to art dealers.

This double wooden bell shows patina from usage and age.