Kongo Dibu bell
€245.00
This Kongo Dibu bell combines a ritual musical instrument with a striking piece of figurative sculpture. Its large rounded wooden resonator is surmounted by a seated female figure, her legs folded and her hands resting on her knees. The figure functions as a sculptural handle while giving the object a strongly anthropomorphic presence.
The circular body is extensively decorated with finely incised geometric designs. Cross-hatched and triangular fields radiate around a central star-like composition, creating a particularly effective graphic contrast with the deep brown surface of the wood. Small surviving fibre elements near the upper section further enrich its material character.
Among Kongo peoples, carved wooden bells known as dibu — plural madibu — could form part of the equipment of a nganga, a ritual specialist associated with practices involving nkisi. The Metropolitan Museum describes such bells as mystical percussion instruments whose sound evoked heightened perception of the spiritual realm. The AfricaMuseum further notes that larger ritual examples are distinguished by carved handles and elaborate geometric decoration.
The seated female figure makes this an especially sculptural interpretation of the type, bringing together sound, ritual symbolism and Kongo figurative art within a single object.
Displayed on its custom-made metal stand.
Shipping fees
02703
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- 2nd half XXth
- Size
- 24 cm (27 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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This Kongo Dibu bell combines a ritual musical instrument with a striking piece of figurative sculpture. Its large rounded wooden resonator is surmounted by a seated female figure, her legs folded and her hands resting on her knees. The figure functions as a sculptural handle while giving the object a strongly anthropomorphic presence.
The circular body is extensively decorated with finely incised geometric designs. Cross-hatched and triangular fields radiate around a central star-like composition, creating a particularly effective graphic contrast with the deep brown surface of the wood. Small surviving fibre elements near the upper section further enrich its material character.
Among Kongo peoples, carved wooden bells known as dibu — plural madibu — could form part of the equipment of a nganga, a ritual specialist associated with practices involving nkisi. The Metropolitan Museum describes such bells as mystical percussion instruments whose sound evoked heightened perception of the spiritual realm. The AfricaMuseum further notes that larger ritual examples are distinguished by carved handles and elaborate geometric decoration.
The seated female figure makes this an especially sculptural interpretation of the type, bringing together sound, ritual symbolism and Kongo figurative art within a single object.
Displayed on its custom-made metal stand.