Folkton drums

The chalk surface carries patterns in shallow incised lines. Look for the geometric panels and the shapes that resemble eyes. On this example from the Folkton drums, carving turns a compact, rounded object into something with several faces to examine. The object dates to about 2500–2000 BC. Its traditional name comes from its drum-like form, but the name does not establish that it was played as a musical instrument. The carving survives more clearly than the original purpose. Turn your attention to each visible side. The patterns were made around a rounded body, and a single view leaves some of that work out of sight. Canon Greenwell donated this example to the Museum. The Folkton name refers to a group, while this particular chalk object gives you a specific set of marks to follow. Notice the contrast between the soft appearance of the stone and the deliberate edges of the pattern. The maker worked through a small surface with repeated, controlled cuts.