Additional information
Ethnic Groups | |
---|---|
Primary Materials | |
Materials | |
Regions |
Authentic Art and Ethnographic Objects From Africa / Custom Mounting Services
This is one of the most visually striking mbira dzavadzimu I have ever seen. It isn’t the most ancient example of a Shona lamellophone out there, but with its singular mix of brass and iron keys, it’s a treat for the eyes. It also has a lovely tone. The tuning appears to be Nyamaropa, the oldest and most prevalent type. The scale of this instrument, its form and wear indicate that it was probably made in the 1970s and used for over forty years. It was never modified to accept an acoustic pick-up as most later examples are. This may in part be because of the locale where the instrument was used or because of the age and social status of the owner. Mbiras would be more likely to be modified for electrification in more urban areas with reliable access to electricity — still a luxury in much of rural Zimbabwe. Musicians who play for an audience, rather than simply for themselves and their household, would be more likely to modify their instrument for amplification, or to commission an instrument with a pick-up built in. $850
8.5″