Burma (modern day Myanmar), late 19th to early 20th century CE. A fabulous small bronze drum known as a Rain Drum or Frog Drum, with an impressive decorative program and rich iconography. The tympanum caps the hollow cylindrical and waisted body with two flanking handles beneath the rim. The tympanum is adorned with 5 engraved concentric patterned circles surrounding a central eight-pointed star, with four frogs positioned equidistantly around the rim. Around the body of the drum are additional intricate engraved decorations and rosettes.
Drums like this example are sometimes referred to as frog or rain drums and have been used in Southeast Asian cultural rituals for hundreds of years. In particular, the Karen people of Thailand and Burma (modern day Myanmar) have used such drums in funerary rituals to assist the deceased as they journey to the afterlife and in ceremonies to inspire spirits to bring about rainfall, hence the name Karen Rain Drum. The strap handles would have suspended the drum from a frame or tree limb with the tympanum facing horizontally outward at a 45 degree angle, and a padded mallet was used to strike the drum.
Condition
Imperfections from casting. Some softening of details, but most on tympanum are well preserved. Surface pitting and light mineral deposits. Rich patina.
Country: Burma (present day Myanmar)
Region: Mandalay
Material: Aged Brass
Dimensions: 16.2cm Diameter Tympanum x 12 cm Diameter Base x 12cm H
Weight: 1.77kg
Color
Brown
Style
Asian
Material
Brass
Condition
Good
Dimensions (cm)
16.0W x 16.0D x 12.0H
Why Bazaa?
Reliable Delivery
We work with trusted couriers and professional movers to ensure your items arrive safely. Smaller pieces typically arrive within 7 days, while larger items are delivered within 7 to 14 days with full tracking provided.
We deliver Australia wide, including regional and remote areas. Every delivery is fully insured for damage or loss, so you’re covered from dispatch to arrival.
Prefer to collect in person? Every purchase includes a free local pickup option from the seller. Enter your postcode above to view delivery options and pricing tailored to your location. You’ll be kept informed at every stage so you know exactly when your item is arriving.
Secure Payments
Every transaction is encrypted and protected from checkout to delivery. Your payment is only released to the seller once the item is safely on its way to you.
Curated Selection
Each piece on Bazaa is chosen for its quality, design, and originality. We partner with some of the best Australian sellers, curating not just beautiful furniture but also the people behind it. No mass production, just character.
Kinder Purchase
Buying vintage is a smarter and more sustainable way to furnish your space. You’re giving timeless pieces a second life while reducing waste.
Shop with Confidence
All purchases are backed by our Buyer Protection Guarantee. If your item arrives damaged, we’ll make it right with a full refund, a free return, or by covering the cost of repairing it. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our priority.
