Burmese Karen Bronze Rain Drum With Frogs, Heger III, 19th Century

An antique cast-bronze ceremonial frog or rain drum of Heger Type III, associated with the Karen people of Burma, now Myanmar, dating from the 19th century.

The circular tympanum is decorated with a central eight-pointed star surrounded by numerous concentric bands of geometric ornament. Four groups of stylised frogs are positioned around its outer edge. The waisted body is embellished with further bands of cast decoration and fitted with two pairs of substantial strap handles.

Cast by the lost-wax process, the drum has acquired a wonderfully deep, naturally varied patina. Karen frog drums were important ceremonial objects associated with rainmaking, fertility, prosperity, status and wealth. They were also treasured as valuable family or tribal heirlooms.

The accompanying historical drawing shows a Karen frog drum being played. The drum is suspended from a rope passed through one pair of handles, allowing it to hang freely just above the ground. The seated musician steadies it by placing his big toe through the lower handle, striking the tympanum with a padded stick and the body with thin pieces of bamboo.  Image: Wikimedia Commons (public domain).

Good condition.

Diameter: 33.5 cm
Height: 25 cm

SOLD WITH A CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY

It is possible to pay in installments.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to call me 0678679716 or email tdixonfrance@yahoo.co.uk.

Frais de port inclus pour la France. Shipping included in the price for FRANCE. Price does not include international shipping. Please contact me for a shipping quote. I am happy to combine shipping costs if you buy more than one item to save you money.

Please note that I ship all items insured priority mail with tracking.

I am an Englishman living down in the beautiful rural South of France and spend my days searching the little brocantes, flea markets, and shops for treasures.

If you are forming a collection, I will be happy to advise you.

We speak English and French. Nous parlons anglais et français.

Any questions will be answered promptly.

MONEY BACK WITHOUT QUESTION IF I MISREPRESENT SOMETHING IN ANY WAY.

I want YOU to be happy at the end of the day, so buy with confidence.

I take a great deal of care packing – I have a proven track record of selling high value, fragile items that arrive safely worldwide.

Payment: Credit Cards via PayPal. Cheque or Bank transfer. Other payment methods are available, please ask.