Tetela Musical Instrument & Currency

An iron gong in typical, elegantly curved form. With in total ten repoussé dots on both sides in the middle, above the lower rim. Used by the Tetela and neighbouring tribes (Nkushu, Jonga, among others) in central Congo as a musical instrument as well as primitive money and pre-numismatic form of currency.
 
Indigenously named "elonja", this traditional Tetela instrument is crafted with iron keys that produce resonant metallic tones when struck with mallets. Its dual function as tribal currency reflects its high cultural and economic value, as well as the Tetela people's resourcefulness, blending artistic expression with practical utility.
 
Tribe:
Tetela , Nkushu, Jonga,
Democratic Republic of Congo
 
Period:
Early 20th century
 
Provenance:
Belgian private collection
 
corroded iron, rope
51cm