Livestock bell – Turkana – Kenya – Metal and leather – Mid-20th century Details Origin: Turkana people Country: Kenya Material: Metal, leather Height: 25 cm Period: Mid-20th century Provenance: Collected by the seller in Kenya in the 1990s Description A small Turkana livestock bell from Kenya, made from folded and shaped metal, with its original braided leather suspension. Given its modest size, this bell was probably intended for a goat or another small animal within the herd. Among pastoral peoples such as the Turkana, bells were attached to livestock for practical reasons, helping to locate animals by sound, but they also formed part of the everyday material culture of nomadic and semi-nomadic pastoral life. This example has a particularly attractive presence. The metal body is simple and functional, with a rough, slightly asymmetrical handmade construction. Its oxidized surface gives it a strong, archaic character, while the thick braided leather loop adds an expressive sculptural quality. The internal clapper is still present, and the ensemble has a very honest field-collected appearance. A modest but charming ethnographic object, with a beautiful balance between utility, texture, and form. Condition Wear, oxidation, surface irregularities, and age-related patina consistent with use. The leather attachment is dry but preserved. Internal clapper present. Please refer to the photographs. Included The bell only. No stand included.