Kāmanche (کمچ)
Kāmanche is a Persian term first used in the 10th century to describe an instrument which is sounded with a bow. From there bowed instruments spread to Byzantium and Central Asia and the Far East, and then to Europe. In Egypt it is known as the rabāb, a term which is known throughout the Islamic world from north Africa to southeast Asia.
The names of musical instruments often reveal origin, context, or musical function. In Europe, North Africa, and Asia where contact with Middle Eastern culture occurred, variations of Arabic and Persian terms for instruments are widespread. Usually, related names refer to similar instruments; however, this is not always true. Among these "floating terms" are the names zūrna, rabāb, kāmanja, nāy, and dombak.
The names of musical instruments often reveal origin, context, or musical function. In Europe, North Africa, and Asia where contact with Middle Eastern culture occurred, variations of Arabic and Persian terms for instruments are widespread. Usually, related names refer to similar instruments; however, this is not always true. Among these "floating terms" are the names zūrna, rabāb, kāmanja, nāy, and dombak.
Artwork Details
- Title: Kāmanche (کمچ)
- Date: late 19th century
- Geography: Iran (Persia)
- Culture: Iranian (Persian)
- Medium: wood, paint, fish skin, metal
- Dimensions: H. 37 3/8 × W. 6 5/8 × D.6 9/16 × Body H. 5 11/16 in. (95 × 16.9 × 16.6 × 14.5 cm)
- Classification: Chordophone-Lute-bowed-unfretted
- Credit Line: The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889
- Object Number: 89.4.1806
- Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments
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