Gusle
This single-stringed instrument usually has a horse-head finial, but nationalistic emblems and medallions of political figures may also be featured. Within the oval medallions here are portraits of kings Alexander I of Serbia, Nikola I of Montenegro, and Peter I of Serbia. The gusle is held upright between the knees to accompany singing, particularly of epic poetry.
Artwork Details
- Title: Gusle
- Date: ca. 1930
- Geography: Balkan Peninsula, Serbia
- Culture: Serbian
- Medium: Wood, horsehair string
- Dimensions: Height: 33 7/16 in. (85 cm)
Length (Of bow): 19 9/16 in. (49.7 cm) - Classification: Chordophone-Lute-bowed-unfretted
- Credit Line: Purchase, Clara Mertens Bequest, in memory of André Mertens, 1992
- Object Number: 1992.276a, b
- Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments
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