The Indus Civilization c10.16

c10.16

In Chapter III, I suggested that dancing was perhaps included amongst the religious rituals, but that it also had a secular side is very probable. That dancing was accompanied by music is certain, for an elongated drum with a skin at each end is seen on two of the amulets. Another form of drum, or tambourine, appears to hang from the neck of one of the pottery male figurines. A pair of what are thought to be castanets have been found, and they probably served to mark the rhythm of the dance, as among strolling Arab players of to-day. Also, if we are correct in identifying certain signs in the script as harps and lyres, we may surmise that at least one musical instrument of this kind was in common use, as in Sumer, where Dr. Woolley has succeeded in restoring the remains of several specimens.