Lot n° 194
Estimation :
150 - 350
EUR
Luba-Maniema / Zela Ngoma Drum, Congo - Lot 194
Luba-Maniema / Zela Ngoma Drum, Congo
A carved ngoma-style drum, attributed to the Luba-Maniema or the Zela people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Carved from dense wood with reddish-brown hues, it has a chalice-shaped body resting on a cylindrical base and topped with a skin membrane secured by small nails. The body is decorated with geometric friezes composed of chevrons, triangles, and incised lines, interrupted by two anthropomorphic figures carved in high relief. These figures have a diamond-shaped torso, prominent breasts, hands placed on the abdomen, and a stylized face with closed eyes and incised eyebrows. The ornamentation and treatment of the figures link the object to the sculptural traditions of the Maniema region, at the crossroads of Luba and Kusu influences. These drums served as musical instruments but could also be used in ritual, initiatory, ceremonial contexts, or in situations related to prestige and communication. Antique patina with signs of wear, cracks, small losses along the edge of the skin, and surface irregularities.
Details: Origin: Luba-Maniema / Zela, Democratic Republic of the Congo Materials: Wood and skin Height: 34 cm Provenance: Private collection, Europe
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