Koto

Traditional Japanese board zither with a long, slender, rectangular, and slightly convex body made of kiri wood (Pawlonia genus). Accommodation for thirteen silk strings, but several are missing. The movable bridges are also missing. Two fixed bridges at both ends of the board (at string insertion points) made of wood with ivory(?) saddles. Only one foot at tail section. "Extensively inlay decorations on head and tail sections, made with different types/colored wood and plastic material. Three-leaf-shaped marquetry panel (kashiwaba), depicting three crane birds flying among clouds, over a tortoise-shell (or celluloid-based, probably) background panel on tail. Brocade piece (ogire) covering the kashiwaba. Parquetry-style frame around the tail panels. Five-petaled, brass flower with green plastic eyelets at string insertion points, on both ends. Chinoiserie design pattern painted in gold colour along the side edges of the board with foliage, bamboo trees, water streams, and dragon turtles. This instrument is part of the Albert C. Spencer collection.