Ila Orangun, Nigeria
Yoruba

Wood, leather, kaolin paste
Early 20th Century
Height 47 inches; diameter with pegs 27 inches
Membranophone – Struck (Directly) – Single Headed

Yoruba palace drum on four wedge feet, carved in the manner of the Fakeye family of Ila Orangun, Nigeria. The rich panoply of daily life can be seen on this marvelous drum revealed in three rows. The posture of the chief figures are frontally and symmetrically positioned. The diviner gazes to the side and leans forward, lending to a characteristic aspect of liveliness and expectancy. The beauty and power of this historical drum communicates information about daily life, human nature, and the disposition of spirits upon the living.

The Fakeye family of Ila Orangun, Nigeria, is very well known as an extremely talented family of master craftsmen. The intricate style of carving that they are known for has been passed down from father to son for many generations. The first master carver in the Fakeye family was Olawoyin Fakeye. He was given the honorific title ‘Fakeye’ by the King of Ila. Along with the title, the descendents of Olawoyin Fakeye also inherited the skill and creativity that secured the family a reputation as expert carvers.