Taganing Drum

20th century
Not on view
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.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Taganing Drum
  • Date: 20th century
  • Geography: Sumatra
  • Culture: Batak
  • Medium: Wood, hide, rattan
  • Dimensions: L. 21 5/16 × Max Diam. (base) 7 9/16 in. (54.2 × 19.2 cm)
  • Classification: Membranophone-single-headed / barrel drum
  • Credit Line: Funds from various donors, 1983
  • Object Number: 1983.94
  • Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments

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