Śahanāī
Unlike the straight tubes of related double-reed instruments found in other Asian countries, this melodic instrument has a curved conical bore. To achieve the curve, the wood body (agli) is cut in two longitudinal halves that are joined together with a glue of heated sugar-cane juice and secured with cane rings. Most Nepali musicians employ circular breathing to facilitate a continuous melodic line of music or to provide a constant drone.
Artwork Details
- Title: Śahanāī
- Date: 19th century
- Geography: Salyan District, Rapti Zone, Nepal
- Culture: Nepalese
- Medium: Wood, brass
- Dimensions: 14 1/8 × 3 5/8 × 3 5/8 in. (35.9 × 9.2 × 9.2 cm)
- Classification: Aerophone-Reed Vibrated-double reed
- Credit Line: Gift of Krishna Man Manandhar, 1986
- Object Number: 1986.352.1
- Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments
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9355. Sahanai
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Nepalese
early to mid-20th century
Nepalese
early 20th century
Chinese
1368–1644
Indian
19th century
Iranian (Persian)
late 19th century
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