Slit drum garamut boiken

Date: Early 20th century

Geography: Papua New Guinea

Culture: Boiken people

Medium: Wood

Dimensions: 202 cm

Weight: 200 – 300 kg

Condition: Good

Shipping costs on request, no free shipping*

Carved from a felled tree the slit drum, or garamut, is the most important instrument in the Sepik River region. It is engraved in different stages, and kept in the men’s ritual house for ceremonies such as male initiations. The carvings on the drum’s body show what appear to be two fish surrounded by intricate curvilinear designs.

The people of the Sepik area understand the drum’s sound as its “voice.” This voice can carry long distances to announce meetings, call individuals, issue warnings, and even contact neighboring villages. Communication occurs through a complex series of rhythms and tones beat out with a wooden stick by an initiated man. More than just an instrument, this drum is central to the lives the entire community.

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