Sudanese kettledrum, 1898 (c)

Beaten copper and leather drum, Sudan, 1898 (c).

This type of copper and leather drum, known as a Nihas or Nahas, is an object of considerable importance in Sudanese culture. The ownership of such a drum is a mark of respect and social standing.

This example was reputedly owned by the Mahdist general Abdullahi ibn Muhammed (The Khalifa) and was taken as a trophy or souvenir after the overwhelming defeat of the Mahdist forces at the Battle of Omdurman in 1898, during the 2nd Sudan War (1896-1899). It was presented to the Officers' Depot of the King's Own (Royal Lancaster Regiment) by Major General Sir Archibald Hunter on 2 September 1898.