Lot 219: A superb Bamileke royal drum

Bamileke, Possibly Babanki, Cameroon; H: 54"

Finely carved with classical Bamileke figural motifs covering the entire body of the drum. The whole with an exceptional patina. Large and imposing.

Comments:
Drums in the Cameroon Grasslands belonged either to the Kwifon, a regulatory society of dignitaries, or were attached directly to the king's palace. The relief imagery on its side refers to the double gongs of iron played at secret meetings and to society members or retainers who hold drinking receptacles, both of which are symbols of high rank and status. Drums are the major musical instrument used to accompany dance, song and procession.

Provenance:
- Zollman Collection, IND
- Gelbard collection, NY

Publication History:
Remnants of Ritual: Selections from the Gelbard collection of African Art (2003) Bourgeois & Rodolitz; Pg. 26, Fig. 57

Exhibition History:
Exhibition History: USA: "Remnants of Ritual, Selections from the Gelbard Collection of African Art":
- University Park, IL: Governors State University, February 2003
- Krannert, IL: Krannert Art Museum, 26 August-26 October, 2003
- Kansas City, MO: Belger Art Foundation/UNIVERSITY of Missouri-
Kansas City, 2004
- Park Forest, IL: Tall Grass Art Association, 2005

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