CULTUEE OF PEOPLE OF SOUTHEASTERN PANAMA 123 



shorter ones. The bore averages the same for each series of pipes,, 

 although occasionally a syrinx is found that is graduated in length 

 and sectional diameter as well. The basal end of each pipe is cut 

 off diagonally to the longitudinal axis of the pipe and just below 

 the closing nodular septum (Cat, No. 327402, U.S.N.M., pi. 8, No. 

 5). A protective simple roll wrapping surrounds the pipe, extend- 

 ing several inches downward from the open proximal end. The 

 white cotton cord wrapping is dyed with alternate stripes of jet 

 black pigment from the juice of the lana fruit (Genipa caruto), 

 introducing an ornamental design in black and white. 



Another similar series of pan's pipes from the Tule is un- 

 wrapped (Cat. No. 327399, U.S.N.M., pi. 8, No. 7). The pipes in this 

 syrinx are graduated in length from 32.6 cm. (12.8 in.) down to 

 approximately one-third that length. The pipes are not overblown 

 to produce octaves, but produce a tone, monotonous in rhythm with 

 but little tonal variation. 



In Darien no double sets of pan's pipes are found with one set 

 open at the basal end and the other set closed, such as were con- 

 structed by the ancient Peruvians, who placed open and closed pipes 

 of equal dimensions opposite one another to produce octaves — the 

 open pipes having the higher pitch. 



Flutes. — The Tule flutes and pan's pipes are direct or end blown. 

 They are constructed of pottery, of cane reeds, and of bone, One 

 of the reed flutes from the San Bias coast is made of a section of 

 reed from which the pith has been removed and the tube cleansed 

 in running water to remove all shred. The flute, u kammu," (Tule),, 

 is 62.6 cm. (24.6 in.) long and 1.9 cm. (.7 in.) in diameter (Cat. 

 No. 327395, U.S.N.M., pi. 6, No. 2). Two finger holes 3 cm. apart 

 are burned through the surface of the reed near the closed basal 

 end, from which the septum has not been removed. The nodular 

 septum has been removed from the unstopped operating end, which 

 is wrapped with cord to prevent splitting. The open end of the 

 flute is inserted into the mouth of the operator, who operates the 

 instrument from one side of his mouth with the aid of his tongue 

 as a stopper, against which the air current impinges and produces 

 the vibration necessary for sound production. The instrument has 

 three notes and produces tones resembling those of a saxophone. 



The pottery flute appears to be the more ancient form and it has 

 practically given way to the flute fashioned from the wing bone 

 (ulna) of the pelican, and the skull bones of the armadillo. There 

 is a variety in the number of notes, some flutes producing two notes, 

 some three, and others four notes. No true whistle is found in 

 southeastern Panama, that is, if one defines a whistle as a one-toned 

 instrument. 



77826—26—9 



