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Asante Drum for the Ntan Society, Attributed to Osei Bonsu, Ghana — Asante Drum for the Ntan Society, Attributed to Osei Bonsu (1900-1977), Ghana

Asante Drum for the Ntan Society, Attributed to Osei Bonsu, Ghana

Asante Drum for the Ntan Society, Attributed to Osei Bonsu (1900-1977), Ghana

This ceremonial drum from early 20th century Ghana exemplifies the sophisticated woodcarving traditions of the Asante people, with its distinctive cylindrical form and intricate surface decoration characteristic of prestige objects created for the Ntan Society. Attributed to the renowned master carver Osei Bonsu, the drum demonstrates both functional design for percussion performance and aesthetic refinement through carved patterning that reflects Asante cultural values and artistic mastery. The work represents an important genre of African sculpture where practical utility and spiritual significance merge with exceptional craftsmanship in supporting community rituals and social hierarchies.

🔨 Auction Lot

Art of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

October 11, 2024

Estimate: $4,000$6,000

Lot 11

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About this work

Asante Drum for the Ntan Society, Attributed to Osei Bonsu, Ghana, Asante Drum for the Ntan Society, Attributed to Osei Bonsu (1900-1977), Ghana

This ceremonial drum from early 20th century Ghana exemplifies the sophisticated woodcarving traditions of the Asante people, with its distinctive cylindrical form and intricate surface decoration characteristic of prestige objects created for the Ntan Society. Attributed to the renowned master carver Osei Bonsu, the drum demonstrates both functional design for percussion performance and aesthetic refinement through carved patterning that reflects Asante cultural values and artistic mastery. The work represents an important genre of African sculpture where practical utility and spiritual significance merge with exceptional craftsmanship in supporting community rituals and social hierarchies.

Seen at
Sotheby's, New York, London, Hong Kong, Paris

Related themes

20th Century, Cultural Heritage, Ntan Society, Spiritual and ritualistic, Sculptural Form, Ceremonial drum, Ghanaian Artist, Wood Carving, African traditional art, Osei Bonsu