Harp-Lute (Korikaarive)
Not on view
Such six-stringed harp-lute known as korikaariye features a central stylized anthropomorphic floating figure that rises out at the center of a calabash resonator, which is covered with cowhide. The figure functions as the bridge from which the strings span the long, curving neck, joining the two essential components of the instrument. Iron and brass attachments suspended from the tip of the neck allow the musician to accompany his playing with percussive sound. The anthropomorphic string-holder takes the form of a delicately carved woman’s head over a simple body made of a slightly tapered wood board punctuated by holes meant to hold the strings. It is only thanks to the addition of the head that it can be perceived as a pared-down body. This harp might have been a central component to divination rituals, invariably launched with a short musical invocation. In addition to the music it performs, its visual appeal is integral to its role. The potential to perform as a catalyst is expressed through its integration of the sculptural representation of a bush spirit.
