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Arched Harp (shoulder harp)

New Kingdom
ca. 1390–1295 B.C.
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 130
This type of portable, boat-shaped arched harp was common during the New Kingdom and is shown in the hands of processional female musicians performing alone or in ensembles with singers, wind instruments, sistrums, and rattles. The end of the arched frame is decorated with the head of a Nubian captive who appears to be bound by the strings of the harp.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Arched Harp (shoulder harp)
  • Period: New Kingdom
  • Dynasty: Dynasty 18, late
  • Date: ca. 1390–1295 B.C.
  • Geography: From Egypt
  • Medium: Wood
  • Dimensions: L. (diagonally) 82 cm (32 5/16 in.); soundbox: L. 36 cm (14 3/16 in.
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1943
  • Object Number: 43.2.1
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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