Small slit gong ·  Côte d'Ivoire, Dan · ID: 3035337

Description

wood, slightly shiny reddish brown patina with traces of black paint, in shape of a female figure, head with tripartite crested coiffure and decorating brass tags above the forehead, the slit-like opening accompanied by a second, smaller opening, slightly dam., abrasion, crack (base);
used at divination ceremonies to accompany ritual songs. The rectangular opening not just served as soundbox, but could contain magical mass as well.