Tibet
Tibetan Buddhist

Wood, silk, metal, tuquoise, hide
19th century
Drum diameter: 8.38 inches 
Membranophones – Struck Membranophones

This Tibetan Silver Drum called ‘Damaru’ (‘Dhamaru’) is custom mounted with two wooden carved skulls, silver, and turquoise stones.  The ‘damaru’ offers a glimpse into the religious practices of Tibetan Buddhism.  It serves as a powerful instrument for summoning deities and dispelling negative energies.  Originally its creation from human remains is deeply symbolic, reminding practitioners of the transient nature of human life and the importance of spiritual enlightenment.

This 19th century ‘damaru’ has two balls attached with string.  It is played by holding the metal handle with the tossle, in the right hand and shaking it sideways so that the balls strike each head alternately. 

The damaru is used in Buddhist rituals together with a handbell (dril-bu) held in the left hand or with a bone trumpet (rkang-gling).  Both of these instruments are also shown in this collection.