Dhol

20th century
Not on view
The dholak is the most commonly played musical instrument in Northern India. As accompaniment to song or other instruments, the dholak and other two-headed drums similar to it (nāl, dholki, dhol) are used all across the subcontinent in countless folk genres, devotional traditions, and family functions. The drum heads are attached with rope that is laced through metal tuning rings. By sliding these rings up and down, players can adjust the tension in the drum heads. This early 20th century dholak is vibrantly painted with floral patterns.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Dhol
  • Date: 20th century
  • Geography: India
  • Culture: Indian
  • Medium: Wood, hide, rope
  • Dimensions: 18 1/8 × 13 9/16 in. (46 × 34.5 cm)
  • Classification: Membranophone-double-headed / barrel drum
  • Credit Line: Gift of Herbert J. Harris, 1986
  • Object Number: 1986.467.21
  • Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments

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