Drum - Single Head

Nyamwezi Ceremonial Drum

Tanzania
Nyamwezi

Wood, leather, cowrie shells, metal studs, reed, beads
ca. Mid-20th century

Height: 34 inches
Membranophone - Struck - Directly

This fascinating elongated Nyamwezi female figure with articulated arms and an animal skin attached with metal studs to her belly (which tells that the figure was used as a drum), comes from Tanzania. The name Nyamwezi means "people from the moon" in Swahili. It is usually taken to be a reference to their homeland in northwest central Tanzania, given to them by the people from the coastal regions of the country. This female figural drum wears a cowrie shells necklace, a skirt made of several reeds, and beaded anklets around each ankle. The form and style of this interesting figure are very similar to the figures found among the Nguni who live in Tanzania and South Africa. Tanzanian tribal art is less researched and published than Western and Central art. A drum like this is quite rare to find. It was used as a drum by a ritual specialist or it was part of popular drum ensemble to accompany music, songs, and dances during ceremonies and festivals.

Owner:
Catalog#: AF-MBST-22-106

© Hartenberger World Music Collection