African Instruments in the New World



African Drum. Virginia, ca. 18th century (prior to 1753).
Sir Hans Sloan Collection, England.



Eli Owens, Bogalusa, La. ca. 1973. Mouth Bow (beer can substituted for gourd).
Source: John Michael Vlach, The Afro-American Tradition in Decorative Arts. 1978.



Gourd Bodied Fiddle. Virginia, n.d.
Source: John Michael Vlach, The Afro-American Tradition in Decorative Arts. 1978.



Chordophone. West Africa, n.d.
Source: John Michael Vlach, The Afro-American Tradition in Decorative Arts. 1978.



Banjo illustrated by Benjamin H. Latrobe. Congo Square,
New Orleans. 1819.

Source: John Michael Vlach, The Afro-American Tradition in Decorative Arts. 1978.



"The Old Plantation." Painting, late 18th century.
Source: John Michael Vlach, The Afro-American Tradition in Decorative Arts. 1978.