Four Frog Metal Drum of Guilin

This is a Four Frog Drum in Guanxi, Guilin. I was there as a tourist.


There is evidence that this four-frog drum from Guangxi region have been present in Indonesia since approximately the 3rd century CE. The drums were clearly part of the systems of alliance, trade, tribute, and exchange across SE Asia and SW China.

In the ancient days drums like this symbolized authority.

There were also ritual and sacred objects.  Used in ceremonies, they were played as musical instruments. Offerings were poured over them. Some were even buried in lavish tombs.
The frog motifs supports the belief that they bring rainfall in Asia.

Hence this drum is a significant symbol in agricultural Guangxi area (Guilin)

Drums continue to play an important role in the culture of Asia.