Ceremonial Bell with Bird

19th–early 20th century

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

The surface of this bell is covered with successive bands of zigzag lines. At the summit, the handle takes the form of a bird looking backward. Kongo priests deployed such instruments in quests to identify those culpable of harming their clients.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Ceremonial Bell with Bird
Date: 19th–early 20th century
Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo; Republic of Congo; Cabinda, Angola
Culture: Kongo peoples
Medium: Wood, metal
Dimensions: H. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm), W. 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm), D. 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm)
Classification: Wood-Musical Instruments
Credit Line: Private collection
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing