Shamisen

Takechi Matsukawa Japanese
 Wakamura workshop

Not on view

One of a matching set of 3 stringed instruments that are decorated with a laquered design showing roosters and flowers. The biwa and shamisen (called samisen in Kyoto and Osaka) both use triangular-shaped plectrum, called bachi, while the koto is plucked with picks (tsumi) worn on the fingers. These instruments were not intended to be played, but were probably made as decorative gifts.
See also 69.271.1 (biwa) and 69.271.3 (koto)

Shamisen, Takechi Matsukawa for, Wood, catskin, rope, silk string, lacquer, red coral, Japanese

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Shamisen, Takechi Matsukawa for, Wood, catskin, rope, silk string, lacquer, red coral, Japanese
Shamisen, Takechi Matsukawa for, Wood, catskin, rope, silk string, lacquer, red coral, Japanese
Shamisen, Takechi Matsukawa for, Wood, catskin, rope, silk string, lacquer, red coral, Japanese

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