Southern Zambia and neighboring northern Zimbabwe
Tonga

Wood, hide (elephant ear), fiber rope, red, white, and black kaolin paste
Early-Mid 20th Century
Height: 14 inches; Diameter: 10 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, with the large ones referred to as the ‘Mother’ drum.  They are played with the drum lying down on its side.  This one shows beautiful geometric painted symbolic designs in red, white, and black paint.  The skin head is made from an elephant’s ear.