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Kinnari vina
Very ancient form of a heterochord, stick zither that reveals characteristics from both the Kinnari and Rudra vinas. The body is composed by a wooden hollow stick (neck) in which a gutter-shaped wooden tube is attached. This tube would hold the frets, now missing. A spike bridge (or nut) is also placed on the top section of the neck. Two wooden pegs for metal strings. Two large, hollowed-out resonator gourds (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.) are attached underneath the neck, through a metal brace cup. 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. Carved peghead tip/scroll in the shape of a dragon's head. Carved tailpiece in the shape of a bird exposing his breast and tail. Polychromatic painting overall. Gourds painted with floral motifs.
- Maker:
- Collection:
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew - Inventory number:
Loading... - Place of production:
Chennai (Timezone: Asia/Kolkata) - Hornbostel-Sachs classification:311.222 (True) stick zithers with several resonator gourds
- Culture:
- Period:first half of 19th century
- Materials:
- Specific materials/techniques:
- Decorative elements:
- Inscriptions:
- Hornbostel-Sachs category:311.222 (True) stick zithers with several resonator gourds
- Repository:Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
- Measurements:Length: 1135mm. Diameter(s) of gourds: 220-240mm. Height (at spike bridge): 415mm