A NEW IRELAND FRICTION DRUM, LIVIKA

In northern New Ireland wooden drums known as Livika were used as musical instruments during Malagan ceremonies, elaborate feasts that honored the dead. In contrast to the complex funerary carvings displayed during these ceremonies, drums were neither painted nor adorned with intricate designs. Instead they were unique in their simplify of form, and their decoration was limited to a series of carved, almond shaped eyes inset with opercula, the calcified 'doors' that originally covered the openings of snail shells.

Provenance: Thorpe Gallery, Sydney
Kevin Conru, Brussels
John Giltsoff, Brussels

Price: Upon request.