Object Details
Description
Maker unknown. undetermined city, USA.
This object has been given considerable scrutiny and analysis because of its attribution during the 1990s to African traditions. Studies have been inconclusive; while the sun design carved on the body may have African origins, the polygonal shape, wood top (instead of a skin), and carved head lie outside the traditions of those instrument designs and technologies brought by people from the African continent who had been kidnapped, enslaved and trafficked across the Atlantic. An appraisal dates the instrument to the early to mid-19th century, but this instrument continues to warrant further study.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of Robert S. Jamieson
date made
1835 - 1865
ID Number
1990.0164.01
accession number
1990.0164
catalog number
1990.0164.01
Object Name
folk instrument
Physical Description
wood (part material)
metal (part material)
Measurements
overall: 31 in x 10 in x 3 1/2 in; 78.74 cm x 25.4 cm x 8.89 cm
place made
United States
See more items in
Culture and the Arts: Musical Instruments
Music & Musical Instruments
Cultures & Communities
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Subject
Music
African American
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_606749