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Bell, MetalIbo Shrine Bell - SerpentsLower Niger Bronze Industries, Nigeria Bronze Height: 36cm / Length: 23 cm / Width: 23 cm Possibly 19th century bronze Shrine Bell produced by the ancestors of the Ibo blacksmiths from Awka or Abiriba, who supplied large parts of southern Nigeria with iron and bronze works. (p 244-253 , see pl. 479 “Earth and Ore” by Karl-Ferdinand Schaedler). This bell is decorated with 16 protruding pustules and 4 serpents. It was from the bronze casters of Awka that the so-called ofo cult objects were produced using cire perdue casting (lost-wax process). The workshops of Akwa, east of Onitsha, and those of Nkwerre and Abiriba can presumably be traced back to the culture of the Igo-Ukwu (10th century), which over the years has produced numerous regalia for religious and worldly dignitaries, such as bronze bells, staffs of office, and weapons made of iron. Inside is the original suspended ball-shape clapper that produces notes of deep, rich tonal qualities when rung. This Ibo Shrine Bell was held in a vaulted private collection since the late 1940's.
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Owner: “Earth and Ore” by Karl-Ferdinand Schaedler |
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| © Hartenberger World Music Collection |
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