Slitdrum (n'koko ngoombu)

Place Made DisplayWest Central Africa Zaire

MediumWood and pigment

Dimensions19 1/2 x 3 3/8 inches (49.5 x 8.6 cm)

CultureYaka (Democratic Republic of Congo)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineGift of William W. Brill

Terms

Sculpture
Wood
Musical instruments
Yaka

Object number87.059.028

Label CopyWHERE WAS IT MADE? This slit drum was made in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Yaka people live primarily in the southwestern part of the DRC. HOW WAS IT MADE? This slit drum and drum beater were made by a local wood carver. They were hand carved from two different pieces of wood using tools such as an adze, knives and chisels. HOW WAS IT USED? Yaka diviners strike this drum when summoning the ancestors. Deceased elders and ancestors offer advice through the diviner to help people cope with a range of maladies, from marital problems and accidents to sickness and death. WHY DOES IT LOOK LIKE THIS? The face on the drum depicts a Yaka ancestor. Notice the facial features; the upturned nose and large, closed eyes are conventional in Yaka figures. Look at the cube-shaped coiffure; this suggests that she is female, while the scarification marks around her eyes identify her as Yaka.

Collections

Africa