Object Name: Rattle
(thafu ma luangu)
Place of Origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Cultural Group: Kongo peoples
Materials Used: Wood, fiber, seeds, pigment
Dimensions: H: 41.0 cm, W: 11.5 cm (H: 16.1 in, W: 4.5 in)
Credit line and Accession Number: Fowler Museum at UCLA. Gift of the Wellcome Trust. X67.870

The figures on this rattle represent Maundu and Malanda, the first initiates of the Khimba society, who are responsible for the well-being of the community. They can also represent the double-headed serpent or rainbow god, Mbumba, who protects Khimba initiates. The initiates are hidden from townspeople for several moths while they are taught how to live together. The Khimba members hold these rattles in their hands when they dance.

Source: DjeDje, J. C. (1999). “Turn Up the Volume! A Celebration of African Music”, Los Angeles: UCLA Fowler Museum of Cultural History. page 269