Drum - Single Head

Timba Drum - Baga (#2)

Guinea-Bissau
Baga

Wood, Leather, Hair
ca. Early-Mid 20th century

Height: 15.75 inches; width: 12.6 inches
Membranophone - Struck (Directly) - Single-headed

This Baga drum is set on a curved seat on the back of an animal. The male and female figure reach back over their shoulders to touch the animal with one hand each. The female has a complex coiffure while the male wears a fitted cap. This drum dates from an early period prior to the 1950'. It is old and well used and was sufficiently important in that it was repaired with bamboo caning. The Baga live in small villages divided into a number of quarters composed of family clans headed by male elders. The clan elders exercised political and spiritual authority; they knew the secrets of rituals and initiations and controlled the use of ceremonial regalia and drums.

Owner:
Catalog#: AF-MBST-49-102

© Hartenberger World Music Collection