Urhobo rattle

A very old Urhobo (Nigeria) ceremonial rattle. Urhobo rattles are rare and this old example probably dates to the 19th century. The bronze bells are missing and there is considerable wood erosion to the "paddle" shaped part of the rattle. There are four worn but clearly visible heads carved on the handle of the rattle. On one face of the paddle end there is an eroded carving of what could be a bat. 

length of rattle: 41cm 

Ex Marvin Chasin (London), ex Fred Hanley (UK)