Cast Brass Sistrum with wooden handle, decorated with an elaborate geometric design. This example, which was used for many decades, has had its individual rattles and suspension rods replaced in more modern times. (230 x 90 mm – 9 x 3 1/8 inches)
The sistrum is an ancient rattle or noisemaker used in religious rites, and derived from an ancient Egyptian tradition.
The Ethiopian Orthodox Church was founded by the monks Frumentius and Aedissius in the early fourth century, during the reign of King Ezana of Axum (Aksum), who converted to Christianity along with many of his people. Frumentius was consecrated bishop in Alexandria, returning to Ethiopia to be its first bishop.
In fact, the Ethiopian Church exists today as self-governing, though it traditionally shares the same faith with Egypt's Coptic Church.
For examples of Ethopic sistra in use see Walters Art Museum ''African Zion'', 1993, page 32.
