Javanese Hand-Carved Kentongan Slit Drum Carving Depicting Mythical Horse c.1920

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This striking kentongan slit drum from Java is masterfully carved from a single piece of dense hardwood, shaped in the … Read more This striking kentongan slit drum from Java is masterfully carved from a single piece of dense hardwood, shaped in the form of a mythical horse—its sinuous body and expressive head rendered with stylized flair characteristic of Javanese folklore. The horse merging seamlessly into the form of the drum, embodying both function and spirit. Originally adorned in an off-white finish with faint blue undertones, the surface has aged beautifully over the decades. Time and use have softened the pigments, allowing the wood's natural grain to show through in places. The remaining traces of color—particularly around recessed areas—mingle with a patina, evoking a sense of reverence and quiet history. Used traditionally to signal gatherings or warnings across villages, this kentongan carries both utilitarian and symbolic weight. The mythical equine form may have been intended to invoke protection or vitality, themes commonly found in Javanese cosmology. The deep, resonant tone it produces still echoes faintly of its ritual past. This is not just a musical instrument, but a storied object—its aged surfaces and mythic imagery telling of a culture where artistry, spirituality, and sound are deeply intertwined. See less