Equet Drum

Besides being used as an age old communication device the African drum can serve to establish and reinforce social organization and tribal solidarity within a clan. In addition to privately owned instruments others are collectively owned and maintained by particular households, lineage of musicians, associations and secret societies. Some drums are revered because they serve as symbols that are attached to tribal ancestry or specific political offices. Often the creation of such important instruments can take breath taking turns; transforming them into monumental sculpture. Extraordinary technique and imagination are used to integrate images of sacred ancestors and unique tribal motifs onto the object. The importance of this humanization derives from the symbolism these objects may bear. In general when the full human form is present 'life and spirit' is inferred.

The Equet or Eket people of eastern Nigeria are known for their colorful circular masks; ritual instruments are lesser known by outsiders. The drum on display is well aged and used primarily for ritual occasions and private village performance. The beautiful dark, patinated drum skin has held tight and provides good sound. The body features raised relief of full polychrome Equet bodies and diamond shaped side motifs that extends downward. The same basic rhomboid pattern rounds the bottom base of the drum. The added a metal stand that is attached to the drum and fully removable gives the drum a dramatic visual posture.

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Dimensions: The drum is 39 inches tall, 41 inches with the bottom base. The drum head diameter is 9 inches and the drum is 11 inches wide.

Wt: 26 lbs. shipping