Damaru

Unknown

19th century · Wood, skin, cloth, shell · Musical Instruments

Tibetan Budhist monks and shamans use this type of drum to interrupt phrases of recitation when it is necessary to summon certain deities. A pelting sound is produced when the drum is rotated back and forth in the right hand as the attached cloth beads strike the drum. Scenes from the life of Milarepa (1052-1135), Tibet's greatest poet, yogi, and saint, decorate the sides of the drum.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th century

Medium

Wood, skin, cloth, shell

Culture

Tibetan

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1980