West African Ekpili Rattle

• Title West African Ekpili Rattle
• Category Utilitarian
• Medium Ekpili Seeds
• Dimensions 45"h x 3.5"w
• Description West African Rattles, Nut Shells
• Notes This instrument is a part of the family of instruments named nyo which includes shakers, rattles, and clappers.* Under the Igbo classification, it is referred to as Iyo: to shake, rattle, clap together. This rattle is named ekpili in reference to the seeds used. These instruments are typically worn around the waist or ankles. They are often found in the Anambra, Imo, Cross Rivers, and Bendel States. Rattles always have the common feature of being strung together and used as anklets or waist beads or as a buzzer around another instrument. The ekpili seed is cut into halves while fresh and the nuts are scraped out or left to fall out when dry. These shells are then strung together. Much of the music of West Africa is played in ensembles at masquerades, festivals, funerals, etc. Since it is associated with dance, the rhythmic effect is important. This is the reason for the prevalence of percussion instruments. *J.N. Lo-Bamijoko, “Classification of Igbo Musical Instruments, Nigeria.” (African Music, vol.6, no. 4, 1987), 19-41.
• Artist
• Credit Clyde and Annie Matters Collection
• Location Library Art Storage H7
• Accession Number 1994.0032.f
• Status Available Request this art work
  
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