 |
Todaiji Temple: Waist Drum
|
| |
|
Todaiji Temple: Waist Drum
JAPAN, Nara; Heian period (794–1185); Wood; L: 40 cm, Diameter: 19.7 cm
This drum, a ritual instrument made in the 12th century, was listed as an Important Cultural Property.
The resonators are made of Paulownia and the entire drum is in the shape of an hourglass. The drum heads are round and are made of skin; both are tied together by taut ropes, whose tension is adjusted to create an ideal sound. The resonators and waist of the drum are covered in symmetrical patterns, with flowers and scrolling vines colored mainly in green, red, beige, and orange. The original drum heads and ropes deteriorated and have subsequently been replaced. |
