Southern Nigeria
Yoruba subgroup ‘Ijebu’

Bronze bell / lost wax casting
Early-Mid 20 th Century
Height: 6.5 inches
Idiophone-Struck Directly – Metal Bell with clapper

A four-sided brass face bell known as ‘Omo,’ created by an artisan of the Ijebu (subgroup) region of the Yoruba people of Southern Nigeria.  A mark of the wearer’s rank and power, the bell would have been displayed by a prominent chief, worn at the left hip by a long sash draped over the right shoulder. Unlike the four-sided Benin Erowo/Eroro bell, the ‘Omo’ bell has a curved opening at the bottom, sharply tapered sides and one side with a  featured face. The other sides are plain except for decoration at the base.  Above is an ornate rope design handle.  It retains its original iron clapper.