Tánggǔ (堂鼓)

Elevated Tone Workshop, Guangzhou (Canton)

19th century · Wood, oxhide, lacquer, brass, teak · Musical Instruments

The tone and volume of this double-headed barrel drum can be varied by striking the oxhide nearer or farther from the center or rim. Used in theatrical performances or Buddhist rituals, drums similar to this one, suspended in a frame or on poles, have held a place in Chinese music since the Shang dynasty. Newer adaptations of the tanggu are now used in the modern Chinese orchestra.

Artist

Elevated Tone Workshop, Guangzhou (Canton)

Date

19th century

Medium

Wood, oxhide, lacquer, brass, teak

Culture

Chinese

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889