Than pattala

A Burmese metallophone known as a than pattala. The instrument is made of a hollow box that is high at both ends, two cords run along the length of the box and the various metal plates are attached. The decoration is made of carved panels with green glass backing . A gum called thayo is attached and small pieces of coloured glass inserted, the entire piece is then covered in gold leaf. The carved figures at either end are known as thungedaw and are naked page-boys of the royal court.'A Burmese harmonicaon (Patala) of wood with designs in black resinous gum (thissi) covered with gilding and coloured glass, with two hammers' (Christie's entry)