horse on doughnut-shaped base supporting bullet-shaped drum on its back; horse has carved details of bridle, saddle, and neck ornament; drum has organic curvilinear decorations; heightened in red, white and green pigments; large pegs hold drum head onto drum body; each portion of drum head below pegs are wrapped in plant fibers

Drum, early 20th century

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On View in Gallery 254expand_more

Carved from a single piece of wood, its massive body supported by an elegant horse, this large drum was closely associated with male identity and authority. Played by men of high ritual standing, it resounded during male initiation ceremonies and the celebration of male ancestors. The horse wears a double necklace with what appear to be Islamic amulets, a possible reference to contact with Muslim traders, who introduced horses to this West African region.

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Details
Title
Drum
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2011.8
Curator Approved

This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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horse on doughnut-shaped base supporting bullet-shaped drum on its back; horse has carved details of bridle, saddle, and neck ornament; drum has organic curvilinear decorations; heightened in red, white and green pigments; large pegs hold drum head onto drum body; each portion of drum head below pegs are wrapped in plant fibers