Tribal Art

Mangbetu drum (N° 20193)

A percussion musical instrument of the Mangbetu, this half-moon shaped monoxylean wooden idiophone has been fitted with a long slot that acts as a resonant opening. It has handles at each of the tapered ends and is also embellished with tapestry nails. Mahogany brown patina partially matted. Height on base : 30 cm. The Mangbetu kingdom produced architectural works that impressed European visitors in the 19th century. Their furniture, weapons, ornaments and statuary were imbued with a rare aesthetic quality. The slit drum is not only a musical instrument that animates the dance but also a vector of speech, since it is used to communicate messages: invitations to gatherings, various announcements, etc... In Central Africa, the ritualist, the only one authorized to use the instrument, also seeks to attract the attention of the spirits through the sound produced by the sticks struck on the slot.