Kundu Drum

A small, highly decorated Trobiand hand drum. The Trobiand Islands culture follows a matriarchal system hence women are depicted on this drum.

It is has a small monitor lizard skin tympanum bound in place with bush rattan twine at the top. The main shaft of the drum has been beautifully carved in high relief depicting 2 female mermaid figures wearing headdresses and have curled fish tails. Around the two mermaids are carved flowers and fine open work carving which are inset with Mother of Pearl round decorations.

Above and below the two mermaid figures is a geometric traditional design around the drum to give this piece a very attractive and ornate finish. The handle is raised and fine with detailed carved work to it and ending lower down the drum in to a flower design with inset mother of pearl. The hand drum is small so it a can be easily carried over to other villages or islands during ceremonial events .

Length; 36cm / 14ins. Kiriwina, Trobiand islands, Milne Bay Province.