Kondi

The kondi (Temne), also known as kututen (Limba) and bundoma (Loko), is a metal box which has a number of metal tongues fixed on top of it - the longest in the centre, then tapering off regularly on both sides. The box also has an extension through which thin metal wires are threaded. The kondi is played by holding the box resonator to the chest, with the keys facing forwards. The keys are plucked, and an additional sound is made from the rattle at the end. This example is made from a mint tin, and the keys are typically made from flattened umbrella wires. The tin resonator also contains stones which rattle when the box is shaken. Kondi are most common in the Northern province of Sierra Leone.

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Further Information

• Type: Musical instruments
• Object: Kondi
• Materials: Metal, Stone
• Culture Group: Temne, Loko, Limba
• Dimensions: Unknown
• Production Date: Pre 1965
• Associated Places: Bullom
• Associated People: Yelemoduh Kuyateh
• Museum: Sierra Leone National Museum
• Accession Number: SLNM.1965.75.01

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