Bell

About this object

History of use

Used for tracking and herding goats and cattle. Bells are usually strapped around the animal's neck for tracking but can also be rung by herders to control herd movement. In addition to providing sustenance, cattle and goats can be used to produce cosmetics, cleansers, clothing etc. Cattle serves as a form of dowry, and they are owned and exchanged to achieve authority, status, and to influence political affairs. Authority in the Karamojong communities is mostly given to elders who have the most cattle.

Cultural context

Herding

Physical description

Trapezoidal metal cow bell with metal clapper constructed of one folded piece of vertically folded metal. The side edges are pressed flat while the open end is circular. The clapper has a tear drop shape with the narrow end curving to form an attaching eye. The clapper is attached with two strands of five-ply twisted fibre through holes drilled 1.5 cm. from the top (front and back).