19th C. African Mangbetu Wood Slit Drum w/ Copper Studs

About Auction

Live

Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art

By Artemis Fine Arts

May 1, 2025

Set Reminder 2025-05-01 10:00:00 2025-05-01 10:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/artemis-gallery/fine-antiquities-asian-ethno-fine-art-19334
Showcasing an extraordinary array of artifacts and art, including Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Etruscan, Near Eastern, Asian, Pre-Columbian, Native American, Tribal, Oceanic, Spanish Colonial treasures, fossils, fine and visual arts, and more! All ancient items are ethically sourced and legally available for sale. Enjoy the ease of in-house shipping for a seamless experience! Artemis Fine Arts info@artemisfinearts.com

View Full Catalog (231)

• Lot Description
  Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uele River region, Mangbetu culture, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A large wooden slit drum with a surface studded with raised copper rivets that form simplified anthropomorphic figures. The resonating chamber is narrow and cup-shaped, featuring a slender slit along the top. Just inside the rim, a pair of metal wires and tubular metal pieces may contribute a rattling undertone to the sound. The slit functions as an acoustic amplifier when the drum is struck. More than a musical instrument, the nedungu is also a sculptural object, its abstract form reflecting both aesthetic and functional craftsmanship. These drums were central to ceremonial life, played during festivals and rituals, often in ensembles with xylophones, gongs, and rattles. They also served communicative purposes during military expeditions. The nedungu is typically suspended from a shoulder strap and braced against the right knee, with the slit facing forward. Musicians strike both sides using padded sticks to produce its resonant tones. Size: 23" L x 6" W x 14.75" H (58.4 cm x 15.2 cm x 37.5 cm); 15.3" H (38.9 cm) on included custom stand.
  
  Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection
  
  All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
  
  A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
  
  We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
  
  SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
  
  PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
  
  SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
  
  PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
  
  #193674

  Condition

  Stable pressure cracks are present on the exterior sides. The surface displays a rich, aged patina, with indentations and wear to the copper studs from handling and use. Minor abrasions and chips are consistent with age and functional use but do not detract from the overall excellent condition. The drum is mounted on a custom base for display. One of the internal metal wire rattles near the rim is loose and missing most of its original metal components.
• Shipping Info

  • All shipping is handled in-house for your convenience. Your invoice from Artemis Gallery will include shipping calculation instructions. If in doubt, please inquire BEFORE bidding for estimated shipping costs for individual items.

• Buyer's Premium
  • 28.50 %