Democratic Republic of Congo
Songye

Wood, braided raffia
Mid 20th century
Height: 11 inches x Width 6.5 Inches x Depth: 3 inches
Idiophone – Struck Directly – Wooden Bell with clapper

During the 16th century, the Songye migrated from the Shaba area, which is now the southern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Their history is closely linked to the Luba, to whom the Songye are related through common ancestors. Having waged war against one another for a long time, the Songye and Luba later formed an alliance to fight the Arabs.

Songye origins are shared with the Luba through a common mythical Songye ancestor known as Kongolo, who can be traced through lineages to the 16th century.  The linguistic traditions of these neighboring peoples are intertwined as well. It is believed that the founders of the Songye emerged from the lake region in Shaba province to the south in the heart of the Luba homeland. Highly stylized masks called the Kifwebe are famous as Songye tribal art.  Grooved patterns on the face is a common characteristic and can been seen on this stylized bell that encompasses the image of the Kifwebe mask characteristics. This bell shows a beautiful patina from usage and age.