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

Description

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.

Object:

Drum

Ethnic group:

Ashanti

Country:

Ghana

Material:

Wood, leather

Estimated period:

Mid 20th century

Sold with stand:

No

Dimensions:

62x48x38 cm

Weight:

6000 gram

Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $900.00

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $95.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from Netherlands

Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

Buyer's Premium

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

Lot 0014

Estimate $1,100-$1,500May 20, 2026, 12:00 PM EDT

Starting Price

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$700

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