Leather Drum

Dark, heavy and cinched at the waist with a braid of leather.

This drum comes from Africa, 20th century, in wood and leather. Across much of the continent, drums have called people together, set the pace for dancing and marked occasions from ceremonies to celebrations. This one has a deep rounded body covered in hide, mottled reddish brown below and nearly black at the shoulder. A thick twisted band of leather lacing circles its middle, securing the smooth drumhead above. A plaited strap hangs loose at one side. Eleven inches high and fifteen in diameter.

It has the look of something that has been asked to speak up, more than once.