Divination Bowl

This is recorded as a divination bowl and a piece of medicine mans equipment. It is made from a calabash, of gourd, shell, and the inside has been lined with cotton. The outside of the bowl is adorned by a strip of cloth, adorned with two rows of cowrie shells. A piece of string has been attached to the cloth, to which are attached metal bells, small glass bottles containing herbs and string-bound charms, or amulets.

Further Information

Type: Religious/ritual equipment, charms
Object: Divination Bowl
Materials: Vegetable, organic fibre, Metal, Glass, Shell, Textile
Culture Group: Other
Dimensions: 230mm [H] x 400mm [D]
Production Date: Pre 1909
Associated Places: Kareve
Associated People: W. St John Oswell
Museum: British Museum
Accession Number: BM:Af.1909.805.1