Nigeria/Benin
Yoruba

Wood, leather,  cowrie shells, cloth fiber
ca. Mid 20th century
Drum B – Length: 16 in, Diameter: 8.25 in
Drum A – Length: 18 in, Diameter: 9.25 in
Drum C – Length: 18 in, Diameter: 8.5 in
Membranophone – Struck (Directly) – Double-headed

These are Yoruba dundun/gangan, also known as ‘Talking Drums’ from Nigeria.   When played they mimic the tonal language of the Yoruba. Their origin can be traced to the Old Oyo Empire in South-West, Nigeria.   They served as a means of communication during inauguration of the the Alaafin of Oyo.   Varying sounds are produced by holding this hourglass-shaped, double-headed drum tightly under the arm and squeezing the tension cords/strings, while striking one of the membranes with a curved stick.