Back to Gallery

Bell, Metal

Yoruba Altar Bell (Omo) #5

Nigeria and Benin
Yoruba

Bronze
ca. Early-Mid 20th century

Height: 6.5 inches
Idiophone - Struck Directly - Bell with Clapper

The Ifa Ogun alter bell, unlike the four-sided Benin Erowo/Eroro bell, has a curved opening, sharply tapered sides and one side with a minimal featured face. The other sides are plain except for decoration at the base. Bells used by the Yoruba peoples are connected with the Oshugbo (gboni) society that honors community founders or were worn as emblems of rank.

 

Owner:
Catalog#: AF-IDST-19-2