unknown Yaka
Yaka Primary

N'Koku Ngoombu (Slit-Drum) Hunting Charm

19th century - 20th century

8 1/16 in. x 4 1/2 in. x 1 15/16 in. (20.5 cm x 11.5 cm x 5 cm)

This object has the following keywords:

• African - Refers to the cultures of the continent of Africa, which is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the Indian Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea.
• carvings - Refers to works executed by cutting a figure or design out of a solid material such as stone or wood. It typically refers to works that are relatively small in size, are part of a larger work, or are not considered art. For large and medium-sized three-dimensional works of art, use the broader term "sculpture" or another appropriate term.
• Central African - Styles and cultures from a wide region of Africa that straddles the Equator and is drained largely by the Congo River system.
• ceremonial objects - Refers broadly to articles associated with or used in the context of a ceremony, which includes formal acts conducted elaborately, solemnly, and as prescribed by the ritual or protocol of religious, state, court, social, or tribal procedure.
• Congolese - Nationality, styles, and cultures of the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• cowrie shell - Shell of any of numerous marine gastropod mollusks of a family widely distributed in warm seas; beautifully polished, often brightly colored, and much used for ornament or as money.
• fetishes - Objects believed to be enchanted, or have magical power to aid or protect its owner.
• figures - Illustrations, diagrams, etc. that are printed along with the text of a book for the purpose of clarifying or illustrating the text of a book.
• minkisi - Sculpture used to contain potent medicines that are associated with spiritual or healing power, often taking the form of carved wooden figures or assemblages of objects, such as bundles, shells, pots, and amulets. Originating in the Congo region of Africa, their use in divination, protection, and healing rites has been carried to Cuba, Haiti, Brazil, and the American South.
• Mkako - Refers to works produced by the African ethnic group of the same name, inhabiting southeastern Cameroon.
• ritual objects - Objects used for a particular ritual activity, often as part of a ceremony.
• slit drums - Percussion idiophones made by cutting, burning, or gouging a slit in the wall of a hollowed-out piece of wood, used for musical or signaling purposes.
• wood - The principal tissue of trees and other plants that provides both strength and a means of conducting nutrients. Wood is one of the most versatile materials known.

This object is a member of the following portfolios: