Shamisen
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)
See also 69.271.1 (biwa) and 69.271.3 (koto)
Artwork Details
- Title: Shamisen
- Maker: Takechi Matsukawa for
- Maker: Wakamura workshop
- Date: 1891
- Geography: Kyoto, Japan
- Culture: Japanese
- Medium: Wood, catskin, rope, silk string, lacquer, red coral
- Dimensions: L. 38 3/8 × D. 3 3/8 × Diam. of body 8 in. (97.4 × 8.6 × 20.3 cm)
Weight: under 40 pounds - Classification: Chordophone-Lute-plucked-unfretted
- Credit Line: Gift of the Estate of Mary Flagler Cary, 1969
- Object Number: 69.271.2a, b
- Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments
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