Drum - Single Head

Chokwe Drum

SW Democratic Republic of Congo
Chokwe

Wood, skin, paint
Collected in the 1950's

Height: 30cm (12 in)
Provenance: Austrian Collection

An old scultured stylized drum from the Chokwe People. This drum has two resonators. The top bowl is covered by hide and has four carved faces, each facing out in the directions of north, south, east and west. This four-faced drum is then supported on the top of the head of a human-like female figure with a short trunk, two legs and two feet. Her hallow coiffure is opened at the end and serves as a second resonator, much the same as a wooden gong. There is evidence that the drummer played on both the top membrane and tapped on the hallow coiffure, creating rich and varied sounds. The drum is has a rich and natural patina from age and use. It is decorated with tribal rust red and white paint, in addition to the face carvings and geometric designs carved on the legs. Provenance: Austrian Collection

Owner:
Catalog#: AF-MBST-57-86

© Hartenberger World Music Collection