Xiao (簫 )
There are two types of Chinese end-blown flutes: those like this xiao, associated with central China, with a small U-shaped hole cut into the closed nodal end of the bamboo tube; and those from southeastern China and Taiwan called dongxiao, also seen in this case, with a completely open blowing end. Legend holds that this particular type of end-blown, notched flute was created by disassembling a panpipe called a paixiao and placing equidistant finger holes on each pipe. Used in Confucian ceremonies, including weddings and funerals, and often associated with scholars, xiao are sometimes inscribed with poems.
Artwork Details
- Title: Xiao (簫 )
- Period: Qing dynasty (1644-1911)
- Date: late 19th century
- Geography: China
- Culture: Chinese
- Medium: Bamboo and ivory
- Dimensions: L. 23 1/2 × Diam. 7/8 in. (59.7 × 2.2 cm)
- Classification: Aerophone-Blow Hole-end-blown flute (vertical)
- Credit Line: The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889
- Object Number: 89.4.56
- Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments
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late 19th century
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