Central Asia, Tibet, ca. late 19th early 20th century CE. A two-headed drum, known as a damaru (damru), made from wood with stretched skin painted green and cords tied to the center that dangle loosely, containing pellets that strike the drum faces when shaken. A cloth handle is tied around the drum and decorated with sterling silver Citipati skulls, and a long silk and cotton tassel known as a chopen is attached to the handle tip. The chopen would have fluttered as the drum was played and enhanced the beauty during the Buddhist tantric meditation and Hindu rituals as the instrument associated with Shiva. Size of drum: 4" Diameter x 2.75" H (10.2 cm x 7 cm); silk handle / chopen: 17" L x 2.25" W (43.2 cm x 5.7 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii collection, acquired 2000 to 2010

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#178665

Heavy wear from age and use throughout. Stable pressure fissure to the wood. Fraying, staining and discoloration to the silk chopen sash and handle. Fraying to beater cords, but drum is functional and skin faces are tight. Toning and patina to silver skulls.