Boxwood toggle in the shape of a drum (gu). From the earliest times the Chinese have been acquainted with percussion instruments of which the tanned skin of animals formed the vibrating medium. Drums were used in the battle field to encourage the soldiers to deeds of great bravery. The drum is one of the ‘Eight Musical Instruments’ and their was no festive occasion without the sound of drums. Apart from this the thunderous sound of drums was believed to chase away evil spirits and we therefore believe that drum toggles served as a talisman against evil and to express the Prowess of the owner. This toggle has been hollowed out apart from a little ball inside which makes a rattling sound. One side is engraved with a round ‘Shou’ character (tuanshou) which expresses ‘May you have Longevity as well as Completeness (yuanman)’. The circular shape (yuan) means ‘Fulfilment’ or ‘Completeness’. The drum has a great patina which confirms it age and we believe that it dates from the early Qing period (1644-1912) but that it may possibly be even earlier. Height 2.7 cm.