Drums are among the most important art forms in Africa, used both as a musical instrument and as a work of sculpture significant in many ceremonial functions, including dance, rituals, story-telling and communication of messages.
Slit drums, with hollow chambers and long narrow openings that resonate when struck, often take a human or animal form in which the drum becomes the body. Several vertical examples from the Dan people show the creativity and power they put into functional objects.
Despite its appearance this Dan drum shows no evidence of age or use and was probably made to be sold.
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