Mali
Mandinka

Jala wood, animal hide and hair, rope
Early 21st century
Height: 24.5 inches; Diameter of drumhead: 13.75 inches
Membranophone – Struck (Directly) – Single Headed

Djembe is a skin-covered hand drum shaped like a large goblet and meant to be played with bare hands.  The origin of the djembe is believed to be associated with the Mandinka caste of blacksmiths, known as Numu, which dates back to the great Mali Empire of the 12th century. The djembe is also known as djenbe, jembe, sanbanyi, jymbe or yembe.   According to the Bamana people in Mali, the name of the djembe comes directly from the saying “Anke dje, anke be” which literally translates to “everyone gather together” which defines the drum’s purpose. In the Bambara language, “Dje” is the verb for “gather” and “be” translates as “everyone.”  The goat skin head is protected on the edges with animal hair and attached by rasta rope with white uprights.  The bottom shows incised figural drawings and has a protective polished finish.  This drum is made for the commercial market.