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Double Bell with Crest (Kunda)

19th century, inventoried 1897
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
This hourglass double bell takes the form of a ritual instrument sounded by Kongo priests to invoke spirits. Such an elaborately decorated example was likely a presentation piece that was never used. The imagery carved in relief across its surface is drawn from European heraldry. One end features a climbing plant motif and the other a crest motif featuring a crucifix. The decorative band that wraps around the perimeter is a continuous band of cowrie shells.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Double Bell with Crest (Kunda)
  • Date: 19th century, inventoried 1897
  • Geography: Cabinda, Angola
  • Culture: Kongo peoples
  • Medium: Wood
  • Dimensions: H. 2 1/2 in. (6.5 cm), W. 3 1/2 in. (9 cm), D. 10 3/8 in. (26.5 cm)
  • Classification: Wood-Musical Instruments
  • Credit Line: Museu da Ciência da Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing