Pair of Yoruban Currency Gongs

Like many pieces of traditional African metalwork, these iron gongs served multiple purposes within the Yoruban communities of northern Nigeria. They were status symbols, ceremonial instruments, and currency pieces used in rare and significant exchanges. During religious ceremonies, members of the tribal elite would hold the gongs by their woven handles and beat them with rubber-coated mallets. With acoustical curves, this pair of gongs has a wonderful sculptural presence, now elevated by custom steel stands.