Mahongwe Bwete Kota Reliquary Rattle

This sculptural reliquary rattle ensemble has an elongated hand grip, with the middle composed of securely bound wood strips that extend downward and flares into the lower rattle section. The seed in-cased bottom housing has been carefully crafted with a beautiful natural fiber woven binding. 

The Mahongwe are linked to the Kota people, who also live in the region of Gabon. In particular, they share their language and the cult practice known as “Bwete.” When the village chief died, he was buried in the forest, however, later he was often exhumed for bones, which would be placed with other “magical” substances in a bark box or basket, called “Bwete.” Attached to the “Bwete” were reliquary figures called “mbulu-nulu” that served as protectors of the contents of the “Bwete.” The “Bwete” was called on in times of crisis in the village. 

These reliquaries’ figural sculptures are sometimes referred to as “reliquary guardian figures” for their role as guardians of the precious contents held within. 

Date: Early 20th century
Origin: Mahongwe
Country: Gabon (Mekambo region)
Material: Metal-copper, wood, fiber rope, rattan, seeds
Height:38 cm 
Width: 9 cm

Condition:
Expected wear with scuffs and abrasions commensurate with age and use.