Polynesian Society: Artifact 8

Drum (Pohu Hula)

     Drums were very important in Hawaiian culture. They were made from shark skin and held into place with woven coconut fiber strands. Some contained decorative carvings such as this one, where there are four figures, as it seems, trying to support the rest of the weight of the drum. This is one of two known complete drums with figures carved into the bass.
     The drum shown would have probably been played as a part of a hula (see "Artifact 3" on my blog). Larger versions were used in temple ceremonies. Musicians would have played the pohu with one hand and another smaller drum tied to the knee with the other hand.

Works Cited:
Information: A.L. Kaeppler, G.S. Kanahele (ed.), P.H. Buck. "Drum (pahu hula)." The British 
     Museum. Trustees of the British Museum. Web. 10 Sept. 2014.
Picture: http://www.britishmuseum.org/explore/highlights/highlight_objects/aoa/d/drum_pahu_hula.aspx