Tánggǔ (堂鼓)
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.
Artwork Details
- Title: Tánggǔ (堂鼓)
- Maker: Elevated Tone Workshop, Guangzhou (Canton)
- Period: Qing dynasty (1644-1911)
- Date: 19th century
- Geography: Shanghai, China
- Culture: Chinese
- Medium: Wood, oxhide, lacquer, brass, teak
- Dimensions: Height: 22 in. (55.9 cm)
Width: 22 in. (55.9 cm) - Classification: Membranophone-double-headed / barrel drum
- Credit Line: The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889
- Object Number: 89.4.28a, b
- Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments
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Elevated Tone Workshop, Guangzhou (Canton)
19th century
Kodenji Hayashi
ca. 1873
Chinese
1368–1644
Tibetan
19th century
probably Chinese
late 18th–early 19th century
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