Southern Zambia and neighboring northern Zimbabwe
Tonga

Wood, hide (elephant ear), fiber rope, red, black, white kaolin paste
Early-Mid 20th Century
Height: 43 3/4 inches (Beaters: 19 inches / 20 inches)
Membranophone – Struck (Directly) – Single Headed

Funeral dances called Budima, originated in the Gwembe Valley.  These dances were specifically for funeral ceremonies of a chief or a rich person. The dances were accompanied by flutes (nyele, made from animal horns) and a large ensemble of special drums, each with their specific name.  The Budima (funeral) drums have a goblet shape and come in sizes ranging from large to small.  They are played with the drum lying down on its side.  This one shows beautiful geometric painted symbolic designs and village houses.  Two original beaters remain with this drum and the skin head is made from an elephant’s ear.