Rhythm Pounders stand on a circular base, used
to pound the earth, providing the rhythm for a dance in the Lo society.
This was to invoke the spirits of the ancestors, especially at
agricultural ceremonies. The arms act as handles, and the rhythm
pounders are used to beat down on the ground at a time when the
seeds are being sown, so as to call upon the earth spirits to help invoke
a fertile crop growth, and also during funeral ceremonies to call upon
the earth spirits to protect the newly buried deceased member of the
society.
Ex. Leonard Kahan Gallery, New York and Ex. Christopher and Genevieve McConnell collection.
Numerous age splits and some erosion on neck,base and right ear. Left hand separated from leg.
Height: 39 ½" x Width: 6" x Depth: 5 ¾". Height with base: 41 ¾". Base: 8" ¼ x 8".
