This very large drum is carved from a single piece of wood. Its massive body is supported by an elegantly carved horse, and the instrument is so tall that it could be played only by standing on a stool. This type of drum was used exclusively by adult Baga men of high ritual standing, and would resound during male initiation ceremonies, at funerals of important elders, and during celebrations of male ancestors. The meaning of the multi-colored geometric and floral motifs carved on the body of the drum is not fully understood. The horse wears a double necklace on which appear to be Islamic amulets. This may be an early reference to contact with Muslim traders, who would also have been the first ones to introduce the horse in this West African region.