Central African Republic of Congo

Yangere

Wood
Mid 20th century
Length: 27 in, Width: 8 in, Height: 10 in
Idiophone – Struck Directly  – Slit Drum

A Zoomorphic slit drum from the Yangere People of Central African Republic of Congo. Slit drums were widespread among chiefs in the north central Congo and southern Central African Republic. This slit drum is carved from a single piece of wood in the shape of a bush cow. It has a narrow-tapered head with a slender nose. The ears and horns are laid back and parallel to the neck. The large ovoid body is supported on four rectangular legs with an extended tail at the opposite end of the head.  This slit drum shows minor abrasions with field usage and a glossy patina.

The slit drum is formed by hollowing out a log through a long narrow opening.  One edge of the opening is thicker and emits a low tone when struck, while the opposite side is thinner and gives a higher tone. Sticks often covered with rubber are used to play the slit drum.  These drums vary in size and are played in musical groups. Because of their ability to produce varied pitches, they are also able to mimic the tonal language of the Yangere people, transmitting messages over long distances.