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Kinnari vina

Primitive and rural form of a heterochord, stick zither. The body/neck is made of a hollow cane tube in which the frets, now missing, would be attached through a resin/wax mixture. The top end of the cane has three holes in which two pegs and the spike bridge (or nut), also missing, would fit. Three hollowed-out resonator gourds (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.) are attached underneath the neck, through thread. The bottom end of the neck has a brass ring. Tailpiece is probably missing. The top end of the neck has what seems to be a type of plug made of wood wrapped in cloth and thread with feathers (it is not clear whether this element would be used as a plug to close the tube and have acoustical influence, or if it was merely decorative; the feathers suggest the connection with the bird element usually found on the tailpieces of these instruments). This particular instrument was donated by the India Museum, located in South KensingtonĀ before its closure in 1879. The India Museum was founded by the East India Company and showcased many foreign objects brought back to England.

  • Measurements:Length: 978mm (+250mm with plug in). Height (measured on pegs end): 263mm. Diameter of largest gourd: 255-260mm