Eine Schamanentrommel der Yupik aus Alaska

Zur Problematik der Restaurierung bemalter Trommelfelle

Abstract

A shaman drum from the Yupik of Alasca

This contribution covers the conservation and restoration of a large frame drum from the Yupik of Alaska, acquired by the Museum für Völkerkunde Berlin in 1882. The painted drum skin of walrus stomach is an extraordinary feature. Due to unfavourable climatic conditions during different relocating phases in the history of the drum the skin had shrunk and was torn. It was in three pieces at the beginning of the treatment. Previous treatments had caused deformation and hardening of the material. The significance and place of the drum within the Yupik culture are represented as well ethical questions resulting from the treatment of the object said to relate to a shaman. Furthermore, both the consideration for finding suitable materials for glueing and backing and the possibility of humidity control by saturated solutions of salts are discussed. The actual treatment of the drum and problems arising from it form the conclusion of the report.