Artifact Number:
2007.022.008
Object:
DRUM
single-ended drum
Material:
wood, lizard skin, cane, black gum, pigment
Dimensions:
54.8 x 11.5 x 10.7
Origin:
Papua New Guinea, Melanesia
Comments:
This Single-Ended Drum is a hallowed, carved round drum, finely tapered inward toward bottom, flares slightly with two deep arches ending in two fine points. Tympanum is of lizard skin secured with black gum and plaited cane tightening ring. Band of relief carving, approximately 14 cm. wide, encircles bottom of drum and extends to both pointed ends. Motif is repeated patteren of concentric multiple-eyes, with spirit-faces on both points. Drum surface has been stained black inside and out. Recessed backgrounds on carvings are painted with red ochre; featured scroll work is infilled with lime. Small, four pointed star design incised at center of drum, on one side- not accentuated. Condition: good and stable. One decorated tip at bottom of drum has broken off (approximately 4.0 cm) (old break). Tympanum has been eaten through by insects- two small holes (0.2 cm diam.) and one long narrow section (0.4 x 3.1 cm); surface of skin shows wear and discoloration. Cane band is good. Wood surface has fine patina, shows bruising and paint stains along one side. Red ochre pigment holds well much lime infill is gone. Bottom edges show wear from use.
Collection Name: Hintz Collection
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