Dong Son Rain Drum

Based on forms created by the Dong Son culture of Vietnam as early as 600 BCE, this cast bronze rain drum continues tradition with beautiful precision. Created by artisans of the Karen culture of Burma and northern Thailand, bronze rain drums were considered precious objects and were used to inspire warriors, summon rains, and communicate with ancestors. A means of consolidating wealth, bronze drums were also status symbols and used in trade between many southeast Asian cultures. This contemporary rain drum was created with exquisite detail using the lost-wax casting method. Bands of geometric motifs radiate in concentric circles from a central star like ripples in a pond and small frogs hop along the rim. A line of elephants marches down the drum's side, followed by two petite snails. A fantastic example of traditional metalworking, this bronze drum is wonderful outdoors, amplifying the sound of rainfall with gentle resonance.