Royal Bronze Drum

There is so much to say about this magnificent drum that one hardly knows where to begin. For centuries Africans throughout the continent have utilized wooden drums of various forms as basic communication devices. Complex, spiritually enhanced instruments were reserved for ritual use. Without a doubt the most artistically challenging and aesthetically pleasing tribal paraphernalia, musical or otherwise was commissioned for the king and his court. Important items were created under the supervision of the head spiritualist to ensure the object was constructed under traditional guidelines thusly appeasing the ancestors and assuring the king a successful reign. The finest craftsmen were commissioned to do this work for which they gained a coveted notoriety. This worker had the demanding task of designing an important drum that conveyed the tremendous wealth of the king, the prosperity of his domain and the general state of well being that ensued from his reign.

To help accomplish this feat bronze was the medium of choice. Often viewed as the ultimate expression of wealth some of the earliest and most accomplished bronze works found in Africa date to the tenth century. The term bronze is often a misnomer because metallic content cannot be determined from appearance, cast sculptures made from a variety of metal alloys are often all referred to as bronzes. Copper is particularly difficult to cast without the addition of other metals that slow its oxidation rate and improve the flow of the molten metal. Different alloys of copper mixed with zinc, tin, and lead result in what are more accurately referred to as bronzes (copper and tin) and brasses (copper and zinc).The basic method of lost-wax casting has been widely practiced on the African continent for centuries. The technique requires a great deal of skill, involving extensive knowledge of both pottery and metalworking, and a careful attention to changing temperatures to prevent unwanted cracking or other damage to either the clay mold or to the metal sculpture during the casting process. Our selection exhibits a fine example of this craftsmanship. Exceedingly well made the piece offers fifteen eight inch tall figures of tribal elders all engaged in having fun during a celebration such as smoking, drinking and playing music. The clarity and quality of the figures is refreshingly fine. The precision of the drum construction is excellent and the sound from the goat skin drum head is truly befitting of such a fine unique instrument. This is one of Cameroons treasures!

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Dimensions: The entire drum is 47 inches tall. The drum head diameter with the spokes and fiber is 13 inches; 10 inches without. There are 15 bronze figures around the midsection of the drum that are 8 inches tall x 4 inches across. 4 bronze figures compose the drum base bottom and measure 10 1/2 inches tall x 4 inches wide.

Wt: 50 lbs. Special cost saving shipping will apply.