Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, and Burkina Faso
Senufo

Wood, hide, fiber
Mid 20th century
Length:  41 inches
Membranophone – Struck (Directly) – Single Headed

A Senufo ritual drum that depicts the classic style of a breasted woman seated on a stool, supporting the drum with her arms.   The drum is adorned with high relief carvings of various symbols including animals .  Her carefully coiffed hair alludes to “life well lived” and identifies her as a woman of status.  The animal hide drum head is attached with rawhide and stretched over protruding pegs.  The drum shows a beautiful patina from age and usage

This Senufo drum was formerly in the collection of Dr. Neil Justin, retired anthropologist. In addition to his field work, Dr. Justin led 22 safaris in Africa and maintained an office in Tanzania.  Acquired in the 1970’s.