Em

Unknown

20th century · Wood, lizard skin · Musical Instruments

Single-headed, hourglass-shaped drums often with a central handle, distinct from the cylindrical, freestanding drums of Polynesia, are found only in Melanesia. In Papua New Guinea and surrounding islands, they are called by various names, including apa and kundu, a pidgin dialect term. The examples shown here represent regional decorative styles. The drummheads are made of reptile skin in the lowlands and opossum hide in the highlands. These drums are played almost exclusively by men to accompany songs and dance.

Artist

Unknown

Date

20th century

Medium

Wood, lizard skin

Culture

Asmat

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

Gift of the Todes Family, 1986