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Gong, Wooden

Bamileke Shrine Gong

Cameroon Grasslands
Bamileke

Wood
Late 19th/Early 20th century

Height: 69cm / Length: 18cm / Width: 18cm
Idiophone - Struck Directly

Very beautiful and large anthropomorphic gong covered with geometric designs from the Bamilke people in the west province of Cameroon. This gong was most likely a commemorative Shrine object. It is an old item with clear signs of age and use. The golden patina is the result of many years of palm-oil libations. Please check Spirit Gong #AF-IDST-95. I was told this gong represents the physical features of the ancestor, while the other, the spiritual representation (abstract in design)of the ancestor. They should always be kept together.

 

Owner:
Catalog#: AF-IDST-94