Lot 23: Playing the Derbakeh, Biskra

Charles James Theriat (American, 1860-1934)
Playing the Derbakeh, Biskra
signed, inscribed and dated 'C. J. THERIAT BISKRA. 89.' (lower right)
oil on panel
12¾ x 16 in. (32.4 x 40.6 cm.)
Painted in 1889.

Boston, Fuller Museum of Art, Boston Art Club Exhibition, 3 July - 19 September 1993.

PROPERTY FROM THE JEAN & GRAHAM DEVOE WILLIFORD CHARITABLE TRUST

No sales tax is due on the purchase price of this lot if it is picked up or delivered in the State of New York.
Derbakeh is the Arabic word for an hour-glass shaped drum with lamb skin at one side, and an open end at the other side. The body of the derbakeh is constructed of either clay or metal, and is played with the palms and fingers while on the lap or between the knees of the musician. The derbakeh 's origins can be traced back to ancient Armenia, where it was called the doumbeg and where some believe it to have been invented before the chair. However, its simple construction and and crisp resonance made it quickly appealling to all of the Middle East and Northern Africa.