Taos Pueblo, New Mexico
Phillip C. Martinez

Hide, wood
ca. Mid-Late 20th century 
Height: 19.5 in; Diameter: 16 in.  Beater Length: 17 in
Membranophones – Struck Membranophones – Drum

Signed on hide: Phillip C. Martinez / Taos Pueblo / NM 

This traditional pueblo style drum is made from a hollow log frame with walls thinned down.  It features a stretched hide lashed to both ends of a natural irregular shaped ‘tree trunk’ wood base with a integral natural branch/knot , a plaited handle loop on one side, and a  padded leather stick beater.  It was made and signed by Phillip C. Martinez, an artist who was influenced by his grandfather, who created drums for kiva (religious) ceremonies. 

The drum of the Taos Pueblo people was used to accompany chanting and dance for both ceremonial events, as well as for numerous social celebration events.