Kettledrum

Dhams?, dhums?, kettledrum. The shell is constructed of iron plates, riveted together to form eight concentric bands. Some plates have red or blue colouration, suggesting recycling and corrosion. The base of the shell terminates in a shallow point with a small hole. A skin covers the plates around this point. Two small round plates are attached to opposite sides of the shell, each with an iron ring, to which a twisted rope carrying strap is tied. The strap is covered with plaited fabric along its central section. The head is encircled with a ring formed of strips of twisted hide. The lacing the same material passes through holes in the head and is looped around the ring. It passes over the shell in parallel lines and is secured to a ring at the base. A pointed wooden stick, approx 195 mm long, is threaded through the cords near the head. With two wooden beaters (Horniman Museum numbers M35a-1985 and M35b-1985) approx. 380-390mm long, which are slightly curved and have grips carved into their ends.