Drum
ClassificationsTools and Equipment-musical instruments-drums
Culture
Asmat
Date20th Century
Collection SiteWest Papua Province, Indonesia
MediumWood, lizard skin, and plant fiber
Dimensions32 1/8 × 10 × 8 in. (81.6 × 25.4 × 20.3 cm)
Credit LineAnonymous Gift
Object number2021.7.53
DescriptionThis hand drum with lazrd skin drum head was made by an individual from the Asmat people residing in Indonesia's West Papua Province. Asmat drums are carved into hourglass shapes from single piece of softwood and then hollowed out from the inside using a burning method. The length and ornamentation of the drum are dependent on the cultural traits of the craftsman.Drums are an integral part of everyday life for the Asmat people, as they are supplement to nearly all cultural songs, both public and private. The Asmat believe the drums contain a great deal of spiritual energy and therefore they are an essential component to all ceremonies and rituals.
On View
Not on viewCollections
20th Century
20th Century
mid 20th Century
20th Century
late 20th to early 21st Century
early to mid 20th Century
early to mid 20th Century
early to mid 20th Century
20th Century