Gong - Alloy, single piece
Mid-20th century, Cambodia or Vietnam, size approximately 200mm x 200mm x 110mm. Gongs like this have been used ceremonially in temples, for example.
Soft, low and short-lasting sound. Later hanging cord. The gong comes with a leather-covered wooden mallet, which is of modern manufacture.
A gong is a circular, idiophonic percussion instrument made of metal, with a plate-like body with the edge usually folded downwards. Gongs are often played by striking the middle of the plate with a felt, leather or rubber-covered mallet. This produces a sound corresponding to the characteristics of the gong, which may have a specific identifiable pitch or may have a broad spectrum of pitch. Gongs usually have a shallow or deep rim, but rimless gongs also occur. Gongs have been made with or without a central ridge. The first gongs are known to have been Chinese and were made of bronze.
Note: This old Gong is a one-off piece that has been used a lot. It has heavy wear, rust and oxidation consistent with its age.
