Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia)
Marquesan People

Wood, hide, raffia
ca. 1940s
Height: 50 in; Diameter: 22.2 in 
Membranophone – Directly Struck

A Marquesas Islands massive pedestal drum with a light (replacement) skin drumhead secured by several bands of thick braided raffia cords. The four wooden legs and large resonator body are decorated with geometric design carvings and  tiki-style motifs (Anthropomorphic), commonly found on Marquesan artwork. Tiki figures originated in the Marquesas, and spread throughout most of Polynesia, often with local twists (for example, the Moai of Easter Island are believed to be a form of tiki). They represent the ancestor Ti’i who is half human, half god and represents the first man. He is often shown with his hands on his stomach and his legs crouched, as seen here. His head is large to emphasize his power; his large eyes represent his great knowledge.

This hand-struck drum (membranophone) often accompanied by wooden and shell trumpets and body percussion, has experienced a resurgence in popularity and are included once again in large group presentational dance performances.

Resource: (PDF) Music in the Southern Marquesas Islands. (researchgate.net)