Democratic Republic of Congo

Lobala

Wood
Early-Mid 20th century
Length: 26.75 in, Width: 8.25 in, Depth: 9.5 in
Idiophone – Struck Directly  – Slit Drum

A small anthropomorphic hand carved slit drum by the Lobala people of the Democratic Republic of Congo.  It was possibly used for mixing medicines, as the inside of the hollow resonator is dark due to serving as a container.  This slit drum may have also been used for signaling.  
The slit drum is masterfully carved to represent the bushcow. The ovoid body is carved with a border of zigzags and it stands on four bowed rectangular legs.  On one end is a narrow, tapering and gracefully carved “head.”  It has a light brown patina.  Signs of usage and age.