A very tall ceremonial drum from West Africa, possibly from Cameroon or the Ivory Coast. Several large decorations carved in relief, including two chiefs, a sword, and an elephant with trunk raised. Four pegs with faces at terminals serving to tighten the drum head, and attached with native twine. One of four legs has detached with with loss towards base.
This piece would have been an important drum associated with an important chieftain. Circa mid-20th century or before. The largest we have handled, and unusual even in museum and ethnomusicology collections.
Height: 212 cm / 83.5 in
Diameter: 42 cm / 16.5 in