A wooden slit drum from the Tam Mayoh Chiefdom. A cylindrical body with two rectangular openings carries relief bands at both ends and, on projecting stems, a carved human head at each end.

1. Form and Decoration

The drum is a hollowed cylindrical log. Two rectangular slots, separated by a narrow bridge, are cut into the upper side. Raised bands run around both ends, decorated with lizard and diamond-shaped motifs in relief. At each end a stem projects from the body and ends in a carved human head: one with a rolled hairstyle at the back, the other with two small knots of hair. The heads have wide-open eyes and open mouths. Two beaters lie with the drum.

2. Use and Context

According to the collection catalogue, the decoration and especially the expressive heads carved at both ends, probably handles for holding and carrying the drum, indicate that this log drum was used for rather special festivities.

3. Surface and Wear

The wood is light to medium brown with a matte, weathered surface and reddish traces. There are pale scuffs and small areas of loss on the body, and the relief bands show crisp but worn edges. The two beaters are darker, smooth and rounded.

Summary

A wooden slit drum with relief bands and a carved head at each end, which the collection catalogue connects with special festivities.