Title
Drum
Year/Period
Late 19th-early 20th centuries
Region
Iran
Material
Technique
Dimension
Object size: H46.0 x C99.7 cm
Accession No.
1999-02783
Collection of
This goblet drum known as a tombak, is carried under the left arm and pressed against the hip. The drum is beautifully embellished with fine mosaic work. It is one of the varieties of objects used or worn by the dervish - a mystic who practices asceticism. One of the most controversial practices among some Sufi orders is the use of music and dance in rituals to achieve an ecstatic state. For Sufis, the 'sama‘ ritual - a mystical concert and dance - is not performed for entertainment but from a longing for God. In recognising that music could generate tremendous emotional energy, Sufi masters of old restricted these rituals to advanced disciples only.
