15 inch plain horse hide frame drum

ETA: This drum was STOLEN on 19 July, 2012, in NE Portland. Info on this and other stolen items here: Here's info on this and other stolen items: [link]


Materials: horse hide, cedar frame, hardwood dowel, acrylic paint, deerskin

Diameter: 15"

Depth: app. 2 1/2"

Description: I cut the head and lacing by hand from a whole horse raw hide to create this drum, using a handmade (not by me) deodar cedar hoop. The lacing is much stronger and durable than artificial sinew, and as it is cut from the same hide as the head it creates a more harmonious energy. It's been woven into a strong, four-way handle, much sturdier and easier to hold than thin, radiating straps alone.

I have chosen to leave it plain, though if you would like it painted or otherwise decorated at additional cost please contact me.

The beater is made from a thick hardwood dowel, painted brown with acrylics, and wrapped with chocolate deerskin. The head of the beater is padded and also wrapped in deerskin. The beater may also be further decorated at additional cost.

Because this drum is made with a natural animal hide, please allow for its individual cosmetic variations, such as coloration, "stretch marks", and the like. As with any hide drum, damp weather can cause the hide to go a bit slack, dulling the tone. However, when dry this drum has a wonderful voice, deeper and more booming than the 13", with no off spots in the head. Responsive to touch, it would be equally at home in an apartment where soft volume is key, as well as making itself heard in a chorus of drums at a fire circle.

As with all of my creations, this drum has been ritually purified as part of my shamanic practice. It has been specifically created for shamanic and other spiritual work, with the help of the spirits of the animals (horse and deer) whose remains have been incorporated into the drum and beater. This is no wall hanger, but a drum made by a practicing shaman for spiritual work!

I am also available for custom drum bags in leather and/or fur; if you would like a bag to go with this drum at additional cost, please message me.