
Akinola Lasekan(Nigerian, 1921-1972)Yoruba drummers and dancers
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Akinola Lasekan (Nigerian, 1921-1972)
signed and dated 'Akinola Lasekan/ 1970' (lower left)
oil on canvas
61 x 75cm (24 x 29 1/2in).
Footnotes
Provenance
A private collection, Lagos.
This painting depicts a Yoruba ceremony or festival. The three men in the foreground are playing Gangan ('Talking' drums). The instrument holds special significance in Yoruba culture, having originated in the Oyo Empire in the fifteenth century. The drums are designed to imitate the tonal language of Yoruba; squeezing the adjustable cords around the body of the drum changes the pitch, allowing the instruments to engage in a dialogue with one another. Traditionally, the drums were played in honour of the Orishas, the Yoruba gods. Ritual dances would be performed in accompaniment to the drumming.