Mangbetu court music, Medje village, Congo (Democratic Republic)

The photograph depicts Chief Mogendo's court orchestra and dancers. "One of the most prominent features of Mangbetu court music is its formal organization. The musicians and dancers of the court orchestra are an integral part of the court. As elsewhere in Africa, there is no word for music alone. Each dance can be immediately recognized by its characteristic rhythm. The many song subjects and the dancers' steps provide variety. The dancers -both men and women- may form a circle or line up in opposed ranks, in parallel ranks, or in combination of formations. Versions of some of the court dances, such as mabolo, are also performed in other contexts." [Schildkrout E., Keim C., 1990: African Reflections, University of Washington Press]. During his trip to Congo (now Democratic Republic of Congo), Elisofon visited the Mangbetu people living in Medje village, southwest of Isiro. This photograph was taken when Eliot Elisofon was on assignment for National Geographic and traveled to Africa from March 17, 1970 to July 17, 1970.