Tsuzumi Drum
Unknown Artist
1800s
Medium
Wood with lacquer and sprinkled gold powder (maki-e), hide, iron, and cord
Dimensions
h. 25.4 cm · diam. 20.4 cm
Classification
Musical Instrument
Department
Japanese Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
The Charles G. King Jr. collection; Gift of Ralph King in memory of Charles G. King Jr.
Accession Number
1918.349
About this artwork
Tsuzumi hand drums were used as musical accompaniment for formal theatrical productions such as Noh, but also in traditional folk music. Small tsuzumi like this one are set against one shoulder, and held in place with one hand, while the other hand beats the heads. The sound is adjusted by regulating the humidity of the hide with one’s breath or spittle.