Chinese Beijing Opera Drum

A drum you see only from the top, and it is good-looking from here.

This Beijing opera drum was made in Hebei Province, China, in the 20th century, in leather and wood. Drums like this are commonly associated with Chinese opera orchestras, where a small, high-pitched drum helps keep time. The taut leather head is a warm tan, mottled with darker brown areas and tiny dots, with a single small mark near the rim. The surface carries the soft patina of long handling.

About ten inches across and four tall. Hang it, prop it, or give it a stand.