Gabon (Mekambo Region)
Mahongwe

Metal-copper, wood, fiber rope, rattan, seeds
Early-Mid 20th century
Length:  11 inches
Idiophone – Struck Indirectly  (Shaken) – Rattle

The Mahongwe are linked to the Kota people, who also live in the region of Gabon. In particular, they share their language and the cult practice known as “Bwete.” When the village chief died, he was buried in the forest, however, later he was often exhumed for bones, which would be placed with other “magical” substances in a bark box or basket, called “Bwete.” Attached to the “Bwete” were reliquary figures called “mbulu-nulu” that served as protectors of the contents of the “Bwete.” The “Bwete” was called on in times of crisis in the village.

The Mahongwe developed their own style often identified as “naja,” an European term of identification. The brass sheet and narrow strips that covered the wooden sculpture were known to the Mahongwe as “osseyba.”  The formal sculptural presentation of the figures were often enhanced by brass sheets worked in a repousse technique (working on the reverse of the metal to form a raised design) and by brass metal strips worked in design across the face of the sculpture, as shown in this Mahongwe ritual rattle. This rattle has an elongated hand grip, with the  middle composed of securely bound wood strips that extend downward and flares into the lower rattle section. The seed in-cased bottom housing has been carefully crafted with a beautiful natural fiber woven binding.  This rattle shows much usage.