Drum (ngoma)
Unknown Artist
by 1928
Medium
Wood, rawhide, and plant fiber
Dimensions
h. 40 cm · diam. 31.2 cm
Classification
Musical Instrument
Department
African Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Gift of the African Art Sponsors of Karamu House
Accession Number
1929.343
About this artwork
This musical instrument takes its name ngoma from the Kongo language word for "drum." Specialized craftspeople often made these drums. The wooden base is hollow and covered with a first hide, then a second one held tight by plant fibers. This allows the sound to resonate when just the first membrane is struck. In Uganda, drums contain a ritual "heart" known only to its maker, which helps to imbue it with power. In contrast with royal drums (mpango), this instrument is not considered sacred. The ...