Fon Iron Bell

Another fine old bell with great tone and unusual style. This bell was acquired through sources based in Cotonou, Benin in the 1990’s. It is identified here as Fon although it could have been made or used by any number of ethnic groups in the region. Agogo is a Yoruba word for bell. The Yoruba are the most populous and influential people in the region and the likely source for this broadly distributed instrument. Blacksmiths throughout the region fabricate them in a variety of sizes and tones. This particualr example has a unique, split and lateral curled finial. Agogo were used both in the generation of secular and ritual music. This is a beautifully made instrument that can be appreciated as a utilitarian object and as a finely crafted work of art. It has a classic, well aged patina. 9″ H.

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