Udäkki

late 19th Century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 681
Formerly a favorite instrument of the Sinhalese upper classes of Sri Lanka. It now survives as a dance instrument mirroring the rhythms of the dancers movements. The uäkki retains a ritual role in Buddhist processions and in a temple ensemble. It also accompanies rehearsals and dance lessons in Kandyan dance schools.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Udäkki
  • Date: late 19th Century
  • Geography: India
  • Culture: Indian
  • Medium: Wood, rope, skin
  • Dimensions: 7 × 6 in. (17.8 × 15.2 cm)
  • Classification: Membranophone-double-headed / waisted drum
  • Credit Line: The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889
  • Object Number: 89.4.854
  • Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments

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Udäkki - Indian - The Metropolitan Museum of Art