The rare Tang dynasty ceramic drum

This black-glazed ceramic waist drum with azure-glaze decor, an example of Lushan ware from the Tang Dynasty, unveils what the Tang dynasty (618-907) musical instruments look like.
This type of drum, introduced from Central Asia to China, was initially made of wood and animal skin. It has two wide sides and seven raised string patterns on its body. Its smooth lines, color, and structure make it a rare ceramic piece.
As the only complete Lushan waist drum in the Palace Museum’s collection, it provides essential information for research on ancient Chinese music.