Carved Face and Eye Motifs on a Kundu Drum(Papua New Guinea)

This single-headed kundu is distinguished by its hourglass-shaped body, pronounced central waist and carved side handle. The proportions and construction correspond to a widespread type of hand drum found in Papua New Guinea, while the unusually elaborate surface decoration gives this particular example a distinctive regional character.

The entire exterior is covered with densely arranged incised and relief-carved ornament. Large, vertically structured panels alternate with horizontal bands of geometric motifs. Particularly striking are the repeated eye- and face-like forms, which are integrated into highly symmetrical compositions. The decoration extends over almost the entire body and is closely adapted to its contours, making the carved surface an essential part of the visual character of the instrument.

The drum is designed to be held by the carved side handle while the membrane is played with the free hand. The extensive wear of the surface and the patination of the wood indicate prolonged use and handling.

Kundu drums are widespread throughout Papua New Guinea and accompany singing, dancing, ceremonies and communal performances. Their forms, decoration and musical functions vary considerably between regions and communities. The elaborate carving of the present drum demonstrates the close relationship between the acoustic function of the instrument and the visual treatment of its body.

The precise provenance and ethnic attribution of this drum are not documented. Its proportions, carved handle and highly developed ornamental vocabulary are, however, consistent with traditions of the Sepik region and the wider cultural area of the Sepik lowlands. This attribution should be regarded as provisional in the absence of documented collecting information.

Bibliography:

Love, W., Fletcher, Neville H. & others: Kundus of Papua New Guinea. Ethnomusicology / musical-instrument research.
Haddon, Alfred Cort: The Decorative Art of British New Guinea: A Study in Papuan Ethnography. Cambridge, 1894.
Friede, John (ed.): New Guinea Art: Masterpieces from the Jolika Collection of Marcia and John Friede. San Francisco: Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, 2005.
Libin, Laurence (ed.): The Grove Dictionary of Musical Instruments. Oxford University Press.