Kunda (bell) 1850 - 1900

This ‘Kunda’ was carved by an artist from the Mayumba people, out of a single piece of wood. The techniques used were subtractive – carving, incising, and piercing. The wood grain runs vertically, following the overall form of the bell, and the waisted shape is strengthened by the addition of knotted cords that run from top to bottom, which would have also served for holding it. The top and bottom sections have been decorated with incised zig-zagging lines, while a stylized flower form is also carved in relief on the upper section. The negative space, created by the careful carving-out of material, emphasizes the bell’s function as a sound-making object. In communities that do not depend on mass production, individual makers like the sculptor of this bell have a very important role. Through mastery of tools and materials, and patient labor, they create objects with both practical and symbolic significance. The Kunda bell can therefore prompt us to reflect on labor and skills.