Artifact Number:
2007.022.073
Object:
DRUM
Material:
wood, lizard skin, blk gum, pigment, lime, beeswax
Dimensions:
89.0 x 13.5 x 13.3
Origin:
Papua New Guinea, Melanesia
Comments:
This Single Ended Drum is long, slender plain-sided drum, carved of hollowed, round rosewood log. Top end cut flat to accept tympanum, drum tapers to slender waist near bottom; flares from waist to two pointed ends defined by high (12.5 cm) graceful arches. At waist, finely carved designs encircle drum, show traditional spirit-faces, mirrored, on both sides and extending downward onto each pointed end. Fine raised outlines and recessed areas define pigmentation Tympanum is of lizard skin, secured around rim with black gum; four beads of beeswax grouped at center of skin. Body of drum is unpainted natural wood. Carved outlines show black pigmentation; designs featured with white lime. Condition: very good and stable. Long thin crack extends vertically from top (44.0 cm). Tympanum thin but taut; shows areas of fine flaking at edge and mid-center; two very fine holes. Surface of drum below tympanum encircled with large and small spots of black gum residue and beeswax. Side of drum near crack shows surface wear, stainging from water, weather; extends entire length to lost pigmentation and wear at carved end. Water stains also evident opposite side near waist. Body of drum with minimal wear; shows contact with body paint, oils, from use. Some fine patination. Four very small areas of bruising near top; scattered bruising at carved outlining, arches and pointed ends. Limework areas show well but much lime is lost.
Collection Name: Hintz Collection
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