Frame Drum 19th century

This frame drum was made by an artist from the Shoshone people, likely in the 19th century. It is made from hide stretched over a circular wooden frame, laced together with sinew. Look closely and you'll see the inherent qualities of these humble materials. The hide is textured, with variations in color and thickness, and the frame has a beautiful organic quality to it. Consider how the drum was made. Animal hide would have been carefully prepared, stretched, and then secured with the sinew, which is itself an animal product. This process reflects a deep knowledge of available materials and a highly specialized set of skills. The drum represents more than just an object. It is a testament to the relationship between the Shoshone and their environment, and a tangible expression of their cultural identity. By focusing on the materials and making of this drum, we can move beyond seeing it as simply an artifact and appreciate it as a powerful form of cultural expression.