Object Details
- Label Text
- This object resembles an n-konu, a sculpted slit gong decorated with a fully realized human head. Diviners used the n-konu to ascertain the cause or meaning of continued misfortune, untimely death or sustained illness. N-konu range in size from 26 to 50.4 centimeters and are also used as musical instruments, mixing bowls for preparing medicines from vegetal ingredients and as stools. This piece, however, is too small to have served any of these functions. Its diminutive size and the traces of medicine around the cavity suggest that this piece is a protective amulet that was worn or carried during the hunt or while on a journey.
- Description
- Wood amulet in the form of a miniature slit gong surmounted by a human head with almond eyes, crested hairstyle and projecting ears and nose.
- Provenance
- Eliot Elisofon, New York, -- to 1973
- Content Statement
- As part of our commitment to accessibility and transparency, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art is placing its collection records online. Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks. If you see content requiring immediate action, we will do our best to address it in a timely manner. Please email nmafacuratorial@si.edu if you have any questions.
- Image Requests
- High resolution digital images are not available for some objects. For publication quality photography and permissions, please contact the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives at https://africa.si.edu/research/eliot-elisofon-photographic-archives/
- Data Source
- National Museum of African Art
- Maker
- Yaka artist
- Date
- Mid-20th century
- Credit Line
- Bequest of Eliot Elisofon
- Medium
- Wood, cloth
- Dimensions
- H x W x D: 23.5 x 5.4 x 5.7 cm (9 1/4 x 2 1/8 x 2 1/4 in.)
- Type
- Figure
