Drum 19th century

This drum was crafted by members of the Hopi Tribe, part of the Shoshonean family. While the exact date of its creation remains unknown, its presence speaks volumes about the cultural and spiritual life of Indigenous communities. Drums like this are central to Hopi ceremonies, integral to prayer, song, and dance, connecting people to the earth and to one another. Notice the materials. Animal hide stretches over a frame made of wood, elements drawn directly from the natural world. In Native cultures, the drum is more than an instrument; it’s a heartbeat, a voice. It carries the weight of history, the pulse of tradition, and the rhythm of resistance. It resonates with the struggles and resilience of a people who have maintained their identity in the face of colonialism and cultural erasure. As you consider this object, reflect on the power of cultural expression as an act of survival and a testament to the enduring strength of Indigenous communities.