Mu Yu
The fish is a Buddhist symbol of watchfulness, reflecting a belief that the fish never sleeps. This state of wakeful awareness is reinforced by the hollow sound of the muyu, a fish-shaped slit drum used to accompany Buddhist chant. Laid flat and struck on the red circle with a mallet in measured beats, this version, from Yunnan Province, is a less abstract rendering than most temple instruments. The muyu may also be found in vocal and instrumental ensembles of Guangzhou
Artwork Details
- Title: Mu Yu
- Period: Qing dynasty (1644-1911)
- Date: early 20th century
- Geography: Yunnan Province (south), China
- Culture: Chinese
- Medium: Wood, polychrome
- Dimensions: Overall: H. 24.9 x W. 31.5 x D. 17.8cm (9 13/16 x 12 3/8 x 7in.)
- Classification: Idiophone-Struck-slit drum
- Credit Line: Purchase, Amati Gifts, 2006
- Object Number: 2006.494
- Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments
More Artwork
A slider containing 5 items.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Madurese
early 20th century
Nepalese
early to mid-20th century
Indian
20th century
Japanese
20th century
Asmat
20th century
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.