Pre-Columbian, South Coast Peru, Nazca culture, ca. 100 BCE to 1000 CE. A rare and impressive double-sided drum, known as a tinya, boasting a cylindrical form constructed with two branches bent into circles, tied with vegetal fiber rope to a wooden border, and wrapped in hide. Petite wooden spikes line the walls of the interior, allowing the hide to not sink inward, while the drum remains hollow. The tan-colored hide exterior of the ancient instrument is intricately painted with a series of abstract designs in vibrant hues of marigold, maroon, silver and black. One batter head is adorned with a decorative sun motif containing a double-bordered "x" with a series of dashes inscribed along its inner edge. Alternatively, the other side is embellished with a black grid design displaying squares painted in alternating shades of red and yellow. Two horizontal registers of triangles divided by a central solid band decorates the periphery of the ancient instrument. Used primarily by women, tinyas, such as this example, were typically wrapped in the hide of a camelid, though, in some cases, the human skin of vanquished enemies would be used instead. Size: 13" in diameter x 5" H (33 cm x 12.7 cm)

The indigenous cultures of the Andes have incorporated rhythms and harmonies in ceremonial rituals, dances, theatrical events, and even warfare since the Pre-Columbian era. Instruments were often used by the Andean peoples to communicate with the ancestors, heal the sick, and bury the dead. Sculptural homages to musicians and dancers throughout Andean cultures as well as detailed accounts written by Spanish chroniclers of the 16th century provide ample evidence of the importance of music and instruments to the ancients of the Andes.

According to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's article "Music in the Ancient Andes" by Helene Bernier, "Archaeological investigations suggest that Nazca musical instruments were important ritual objects used during group performances at the ceremonial center of Cahuachi. They were also likely played during processions along the great Nazca geoglyphs, which were suitable to be used as ritual pathways."

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-private Hans Juergen Westermann collection, Germany, collected from 1950 to 1960s

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#162557

Collection label on side. Slight warping to wooden periphery in small area causing fissure between leather face and wooden side. Light wear to hide, especially on periphery. Otherwise, excellent with impressive remaining pigments.