Bell, Metal

Ijebu head-shaped altar bell of the Yoruba

Nigera
Yoruba

Bronze
ca. Early-Mid 20th century

Height: 13 inches
Idiophone - Struck Directly

Yoruba cast metal bell in the form of a head. The face has prominent features including scarification patterns and a small bird in relief on the forehead. Dark patina with traces of verdigris showing signs of use and age. This bell, cast by the lost-wax method, is attributed by scholars to the "Lower Niger Bronze Industry" style, an interim designation coined by William Fagg in 1959. It may have been part of a shrine's paraphernalia as an altar bell. Its motifs may symbolize physical aggression and supernatural powers.

Owner:
Catalog#: AF-IDST-45

© Hartenberger World Music Collection