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Drum (Nga)
OriginTibet
DateMid-19th century
Dimensions8 3/4 × 42 3/4 × 22 1/8 in. (Drum)
2 1/2 × 28 × 2 1/2 in. (Beater)
2 1/2 × 28 × 2 1/2 in. (Beater)
MediumWood, pigments, leather, metal
Classification(s)
Credit LineRubin Museum of Art, Gift of Robert and Lois Bayils
Object numberSC2019.3.1a-b
DescriptionThe sound produced by this large, double-headed frame drum varies according to the type of ritual. It can be peaceful or wrathful depending on the character of the deity invoked. A musician holds the long handle in their left hand and strikes the middle of the drum with a curved stick using their right hand. The instrument is used frequently in rituals for wrathful deities, religious dances, and processions. The drum takes on metaphorical meaning within Buddhism, in which sharing the Buddha’s teachings is called “sounding the drum of the dharma.” This type of drum is often associated with the sound of rolling thunder, alluded to by the clouds and dragons painted on its frame.Not on view
early 20th century
19th century (?)
18th-19th century
19th century
18th - 19th century
ca. 17th century
15th century
11th century
19th century
early 20th century
19th century