The drum

1674

The title page lists conjurations among the subjects of the book. It says the drum is called Kannus, or Quobdas. It is made from a root of pine, fir, or birch, cleft and hollowed. The skin is fastened with pegs, and he has seen some sewn with reindeer sinew. The pictures are stained with the bark of an alder. Olaus Magnus called the drum an anvil. Schefferus says that was a mistake, and that the smith’s hammer in an engraving is the wrong tool. The hammer is of reindeer horn. A bunch of brass rings, which the book calls the index, is laid on the skin. According to Samuel Rheen, Thor and Storjunkare are drawn above the lines, and the sun in the middle. The book says the drum was used to ask about hunting, illness, and things at a distance. It also writes of spirits and a devil. That is his language. The manner of the ceremony, and the songs, are not repeated here. (Schefferus 1674)