Tang gu (Hall Drum) by Xin Chang, China, early 20th century

NMM 2389. Tang gu (hall drum) or huapen gu (flower pot drum) by Xin Chang, China, early 20th century. Barrel shaped. Two heads, one smaller than the other (smaller head preserved separately). Traditionally suspended on a wooden stand and struck with large beater. Holes in the surface of this drum’s wooden body suggest an earlier ornamentation or different drumhead configuration. The interior, bamboo wrapping, metal tacks, and holes in the edges of the existing drumhead reveal the alternate methods used to extend the life of this drum. Overall height: 42 cm; diameter of larger head: 34.6 cm; diameter of smaller end of drum: 22.8 cm; diameter of aperture at smaller end: 18 cm. Arne B. Larson Collection, 1979.

Go to Annotated Checklist of Musical Instruments From East Asia on Display at the NMM

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