WOODEN CAMEL BELLS
KShs 2,500.00
These are wooden camel bells from Northern Kenya which are tied around a camel’s neck on a strap and produces a low sound.The bells help a herder track his animals in the bushy terrain.
Each bell is specifically tailored to the gender,age and pregnancy status of the camel.The sizes vary but they typically measure around 20 cm to 50 cm in length and weigh between 250–500 grams.
The bells come in a set of four but one can opt to buy the whole set or individual pieces.
Often called the “ship of the desert,” the camel is vital to many pastoralist communities in Africa, including the Somali, Oromo, Gabra, and Borana. To track the animals while herding, pastoralists attach wooden bells to the camels which are handcrafted by local artisans using sustainably sourced hardwood.
The bells are uniquely tailored to the needs of the camel as outlined below:
1.Darma
This bell which is the largest is specifically made for the pregnant and elderly camels.
2.Shabacla
This is for lactating camels which are normally followed by calves.
3.Aleel
This is for the male camels.
4.Yanaaq
This one is for calves that are usually left at home while the herd goes out to graze.
The sizes of the bell vary,but typically,each bell measures around 20 cm by 20 cm and weighs between 250–400 grams. Environmentally friendly and culturally significant, these bells are timeless artifacts of African pastoral life.
This is a collectors item that says one knows a different side of Africa.
Major –
Great pieces that reminds me of my days in Somalia as a Peace Corp.Wish the items could be shipped to London directly.
Drum Major –
We are glad that the items brought fond memories.We are currently working on the shipping logistics.
Thanks.
Lawrence –
I had been searching for this curio until I stumbled on this site.Thanks Drum Major for delivering the four set of bells in time.Asante sana!
Elachi –
Great product delivered on the agreed time.The wood is of high quality.
Jane Pound –
Bought these gems from this website.My grandchildren love the sound the bells make.