Collector's Ritually Used Baoule Iron Gong and Beater-AFRICA
A old and ritually used Baoule gong beater.
The wood beater is exceptionally complete with the dawle, or goblet-shaped iron gong; remnants of the cotton cushion are still attached to the beater.
The pale wood beater has been surface stained, and is highlighted by the buffalo demon spirit mask. This particular beater was tribally by komien, or religious local priests - the title given to diviners among the Baule.
During ceremonial performances, the gong and beater are used to accompany their songs, as they contact the spirits the beating if the gong will bring them into a state of possession by the spirits. During this ceremonial dance, the masked dancer wears the buffalo demon mask.
The beater is adorned with Baule symbols worked on the mallet end; the finely sculpted striker reflects technical skill as well as the aesthetic sense of form and design of the Baule people.
Collectors piece - excellent patina of age and usage.
Collected in Ivory Coast.
Origin: Baoule ethnic group - IVORY-COAST
Age: Early to mid 20th century
Materials: Wood, hand-forged iron
Condition details: Good with rich patina of age and usage
Dimensions/Weight: 27 cm (10 1/2") in length, 7 cm (2 3/4") height - wood beater - 150 grams
Inner Diam/Ring Size: N/A
The wood beater is exceptionally complete with the dawle, or goblet-shaped iron gong; remnants of the cotton cushion are still attached to the beater.
The pale wood beater has been surface stained, and is highlighted by the buffalo demon spirit mask. This particular beater was tribally by komien, or religious local priests - the title given to diviners among the Baule.
During ceremonial performances, the gong and beater are used to accompany their songs, as they contact the spirits the beating if the gong will bring them into a state of possession by the spirits. During this ceremonial dance, the masked dancer wears the buffalo demon mask.
The beater is adorned with Baule symbols worked on the mallet end; the finely sculpted striker reflects technical skill as well as the aesthetic sense of form and design of the Baule people.
Collectors piece - excellent patina of age and usage.
Collected in Ivory Coast.
Origin: Baoule ethnic group - IVORY-COAST
Age: Early to mid 20th century
Materials: Wood, hand-forged iron
Condition details: Good with rich patina of age and usage
Dimensions/Weight: 27 cm (10 1/2") in length, 7 cm (2 3/4") height - wood beater - 150 grams
Inner Diam/Ring Size: N/A
