Gong (Primary Title)
Unknown (Artist)
Both the front and back of this gong depict a figure inside diamond-shaped fields. White coloring, which symbolizes the spirit realm, appears on the faces at the top (also on both sides), echoing the application of chalk on young men and women during their initiation to Bwiti, a system of spiritual practices prevalent in the Gabon/Congo region. Diamond-shaped markings incised on the side edges of the gong, like those on the Ebandza house panels displayed behind it, indicate the passage of life through its different stages. Chanting and the music of harps, drums, and gongs deepen the initiation experience. When struck by a wooden tapper, the gong’s tone has a soft, resonant timbre.
From the Robert and Nancy Nooter Collection, Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
