Taganing Drum

Unknown

20th century · Wood, hide, rattan · Musical Instruments

This instrument is one of five similar drums which form Indonesia tuned drum set, called the taganing. The taganing drum-chime plays the melody in a ritual ensemble used to help summon ancestor spirits. An unusual lacing system, unique to Sumatra, attaches the skin head to the drum's wooden body. Cleats pierce the head horizontally allowing the rattan lacing to pull down and tighten the skin. The lacing, unlike most drums, attaches to a base separated from the body by wedges which when inserted, tighten the lacing, increase the tension of the skin and consequently determine the pitch of the instrument.

Artist

Unknown

Date

20th century

Medium

Wood, hide, rattan

Culture

Batak

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

Funds from various donors, 1983