bossed gong

A bossed gong is a circular metal percussion instrument with a knob or boss in the center, typically with a turned-down rim. It is struck in the center with a beater, producing a sound of either definite or indefinite pitch.1

These instruments have a long history, with evidence of their use in China by the 6th century CE and in Java by the 9th century. Southeast Asia is particularly known for its bossed gongs, which vary in shape, material, and how they are played. They are used in ensembles for concert, theater, and ceremonial music, and can play melodies or serve as time markers. In some cultures, like those in the Philippines, gongs are struck by hand to create melodies through rhythmic patterns. Gong chimes, a type of bossed gong, consist of a set of tuned, pot-shaped gongs played with the open side down on a frame.123