Antique Bronze Royal AKYE Gong from the Ivory Coast, Africa Appraised

Antiques Bronze Royal AKYE Gong from the Ivory Coast, Africa Appraised
A RARE Royal Akye bronze gong Comoé River region, Cote d Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Africa is a masterpiece of lost wax casting, the patterns of which were made in applied wax threads. There is a similar piece in the BARBER-MUELLER MUSEUM in Geneva, Switzerland.
Group Ethnic: Baoulé
Material: Bronze
Dimensions: Hauteur 30 cm X 12 cm
Artist/Maker: Royal Akye bronze gong Comoé River region, Cote d Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Africa
Title: Gong
Medium: lost wax of cast bronze, applies ornamental wax threads
Date: Circa late 18th centure/ early 19th century
Condition: The piece is in excellent condition consistent with age and wear.
It probably dates from the 18th century. Imported metal, probably transported via the port of Grand-Bassam, was quite rare at the time. Also, only individuals at the top of the social hierarchy, such as chiefs, could afford such important and elaborate objects.