Snake/Reptile Skin, Wood, Metal Tacks, Cowrie Shells, Fabric

Drum - Single Head

Kuba or Lele Face Drum

Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire)
Kuba

Snake/Reptile Skin, Wood, Metal Tacks, Cowrie Shells, Fabric
ca. Mid-20th century

Height: 62 cm. Depth: 23 cm. Width: 23 cm.
Membranophone - Struck - Directly - Goblet-shaped

This drum bears a large mask-like faces in high relief on the upper portion. Though the mask faces clearly resemble the masks of the Lele themselves, it is not surprising that such drums can often be seen in use among the neighboring Kuba, who trade carved wooden cups and pipes extensively with the Lele. Handcarved from one piece of wood with snake/reptile skin head.

Owner:
Catalog#: AF-MBST-19-102