Mbejn

Unknown

19th century · Wood, hide, polychrome · Musical Instruments

Mbejns are characterized by a carved openwork "arcade" base, decorative sections separated by bosses or lozenge (cowrie-shell) pattern bands, triangular and hemispherical devices, and alternating use of white, black, rust, or natural wood colors. Typically the head's tuning and attachment system relies on wedges to tighten or relax the tension of the skin. This type of drum, made in several sizes and used in pairs, is played in an upright position and is usually employed with one or two large slit drums (m'kuls) to provide rhythmic accompaniment to large group dances. The Mbejn is one of the few drums used by the Fang people.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th century

Medium

Wood, hide, polychrome

Culture

Fang people

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889