Equally rich in its variety of frame drums is the American continent. Comparatively little is known of their use in prehistoric times, but evidence points to a preference having been given to the larger membranophone. However, double-headed shallow drums (page 128) have been played in Peru since pre-Columbian days, and frame drums are known in Bolivia today.
Amerind frame drums have several notable features in common with those of the Far East: their heads are often painted, they are commonly played...