VANUATU DECORATED BAMBOO SLIT DRUM

Origin: Melanesia, Vanuatu, Ureparapara Island in the northern Vanua Lava group (Provenance:  Acquired from an antique dealer in San Francisco who didn't know what it was) 

Period/Date:  Early 20th Century

Materials:  Bamboo, Charcoal, Ocher Pigments

Description:  This rare bamboo slit drum is presented on a custom metal base.  It features incised geometric decoration which is accented with red and black pigments.  It is in good condition with no cracks or loss yet it has seen a lot of use having acquired a dry varied patina.  For a similar example see plate 108 figures 13-20 "Ethnology of Vanuatu" by Speiser.  Ureparapara is the closest Vanuatu island to the Torres Islands which is why it has a Torres look to it.

Dimensions:   Height 31.5"  (80 cm), Width 2.5"  (6 cm)

Price:   $600    Currency Conversion      FREE SHIPPING With (Buy Now) Feature!