“Nntan“ or “Ompe“ Drum – Wood, Leather – Ashanti – Ghana

Ex Zemanek-Münster auction

Authentic Ashanti drum with great signs of use and age from Ghana

Drums are among the most important art forms in Africa, used both as a musical instrument and as a work of sculpture significant in many ceremonial functions, including dance, rituals, story-telling and communication of messages.

wood, paint residues (red and black), animal skin covering (renewed), rest.

The front of the “ntan” drum is carved with female breasts. The body of the drum is decorated with iconographic images and animal emblems.

“Ntan” or “ompe” bands were popular among the Akan peoples of Ghana between the 1920s and 1950s. They performed on occasions such as naming ceremonies, weddings, funerals and traditional festivals—any event where entertainment was needed.

The term “ntan” does not refer to the drum itself, but rather to the entire event that featured music and the display of carved figurative sculptures. The figures were arranged like a stage set near the “ntan” drums and were intended to enhance the performance.

Good condition with a beautiful patina of age. One wooden stick figure is missing.

Provenance: Manfred Schäfer collection, ex- gallery owner from Ulm, Germany.