Nigeria
Yoruba

Wood, hide, fiber rope, rubber
Early 20th century
Height: 18 inches; Diameter: 8 inches
Membranophone – Struck (Directly) – Single Headed

This Yoruba hollowed drum is decorated in high relief with male and female figures. It is surmounted by a tight leather head and secured by wooden pegs, rubber tube, and fiber rope.  Drums foster both belief and prestige. They are used both as a musical instrument and as a work of sculpture in many ceremonial functions.   Drums, such as this are called ‘gb’n’ (Igbin) and were used in many segments of Yoruba ritual, civic, and spiritual practice including divination.

Divination is a process used to seek and obtain information in terms of guidance from a higher being.  This information helps an individual or community seeking guidance from their gods.  The process of divination varies among different cultures.  The Ifa divination is associated with the Yoruba people of Nigeria.  It is a complex system that involves communication that might include the use of diviners or messengers communicating to the supreme being.  These diviners use various appealing tools including drums, divination trays, etc., to help in their communication.  Nevertheless, many Yoruba are now Christians or Muslims, but aspects of their traditional religion still survive.