Slit Gong
African, Yaka
Wood; 13 in.
The Barry D. Maurer (Class of 1959) Collection of African art purchased with Amherst College Discretionary Fund and funds from H. Axel Schupf (Class of 1957).
AC 1999.7
Musical Instrument. A divination ritual artifact consisting of a long cylindrical body with a vertical opening, surmounted by a male head (forming the handle). The head displays a knobby headdress, indicative of status. A divination ritual artifact, in use the slit-gong would be struck by a stick to call upon spiritual agents or to punctuate statements.