Rattle (thafu ma luangu)

19th century

Not on view

This finial from a ritual dance staff is decorated with power figures (nkisi) representing Maundu and Malanda, the first initiates of the Khimba xociety, who are responsible for the well-being of the community. The seedpods jingle as the staff is twisted.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Rattle (thafu ma luangu)
Maker: Kongo peoples
Date: 19th century
Geography: Upper Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Culture: Congolese
Medium: wood, fiber, seeds
Dimensions: Height: 15 in. (38.1 cm)
Diameter: 4 in. (10.2 cm)
Classification: Idiophone-Shaken-rattle
Credit Line: The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889
Object Number: 89.4.3324
Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments

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