These gongs are known as the 'gong ageng', the largest and most important of the gong ensemble known as gamelan in Java. Forging these instruments is considered spiritually dangerous work and only the most experienced metal workers will produce the large gongs. The name of the gamelan set, 'Ngambar Arum' or 'Golden Fragrance' is written inside one of these gongs. The term 'gamelan' refers to the action ('an') of hammering ('gamel') bronze instruments such as gongs and drums among several other types of instruments with beaters. The bronze instruments play the main melody and are accompanied by softer wind, wood and string instruments. Today, gamelan music remains an important part of court and village life in Java. Many sets are kept as royal heirlooms (pusaka) and are played at important ceremonies.
