Perhaps the greatest variety of musical instruments in Precolumbian America was found among the peoples of the modern Gulf Coast state of Veracruz, Mexico, during the second half of the first millennium A.D. Written accounts, iconography, and archaeological finds provide a picture of the rich diversity of musical life during this period. Unfortunately, many of the instruments perished, but some, those made of ceramic, bone, or metal, have survived.

This clay duct flute, a recorder-like instrument, has five finger holes that provide the player with more than thirteen tones. How these tones were used is not known, but such flutes were probably heard on both ritual and secular occasions. The mouthpiece, unseen at the back of the cylindrical tube, directs blown air against a sharp, whistlelike edge that forms an opening in the rear of the tube. A hood, typical of Veracruz duct flutes, covers this aperture. The mold-made face with headdress, earplugs, and nose strap that decorates the tube's upper portion has no tonal function. The elaborately painted surface on the front and sides of the flute includes both ancient pigments and some that are more modern. A repair appears at the third hole, but the instrument is still capable of making its original sounds.