Hunting Bell – Wood – Dibu – Bakongo – DR Congo

This Bakongo hunting bell (dibu or madibu) is a powerful ritual object used by Kongo peoples in the DR Congo. Bells of this type were traditionally worn by hunting dogs, since Kongo dogs cannot bark and were located by the sound of their bells. But the most elaborate versions were used by nganga (ritual specialists) for divination, healing, and spiritual protection. This rare Bakongo hunting bell from Congo is hand‑carved from wood and features a striking ancestor face, on the otherside a lizard, an animal figure on top, and two rattles beneath. Traditionally used by Kongo hunters and ritual specialists (nganga), these bells served both practical and spiritual roles—guiding hunting dogs and activating ancestral protection during divination and healing ceremonies. With its powerful symbolism, detailed carving, and authentic ritual wear, this Bakongo bell is an exceptional piece of African tribal art, ideal for collectors of Kongo nkisi objects Provenance: former private collection of Franco Rimoldi (Darmstadt, Germany).