Photographs © Tim Hamill

YAKA
Drum 10
21.5" high x 4.5" diameter
$300

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. Vertical examples from the Yaka people show careful execution.

This Yaka slit drum shows no evidence of age or use and was probably made to be sold.

There is a noticeable but stable crack on the back of the head and a small crack on the top and bottom of the slit opening.  There are also old small insect holes.