Timor-Leste (East Timor)
Timorese

Wood, rattan, hide
Mid 20th century
Height: 17.5 inches
Membranophones – Struck Membranophones

This small babadok is a shoulder drum generally played by the Timorese women of East Timor during tebedai dance in honor of their ancestors.  It is a tapered single headed wooden drum carved from one piece of wood, that is played with both hands while hanging on one shoulder.  The bottom of the tapered resonator extends to a circular foot that is open underneath. The skin head is attached with rattan rope and wooden slats are used for tightening the skin head.

The traditional music unique to Timor-Leste is a fragile culture. As well as dance and singing there are a few of the unique instruments that are still in existence in many of the 13 districts. Nevertheless, much of the traditional music and languages have vanished.