The Ohlone tambor is a small, freely suspended drum used in ceremonies and other rituals. It is held in one hand and struck with a beater held by the other. Native American drums are some of the most harmonic, and resonated loudly after struck. The Ohlone tambor is no different. They also featured artwork in the form of beading, painting, and staining on the individual pieces. Through the art, the spiritual intent of the drum’s creator can last far beyond themselves.

After the Spanish began the mission system in California, the Ohlone tribe was nearly wiped out. This drum would have been used ritualistically by the tribe’s members, but was not allowed in the missions. Although once bordering on extinction, the tribe has now rebounded and claimed agency over themselves by reclaiming ancient traditions such as the Ohlone tambor.