Sanxian (三弦 )

Unknown

19th century · Wood, various materials · Musical Instruments

There are two forms of the sanxian: a large one from the North, with a thin metal plate attached inside to enrich the sound, and a smaller version from the South. Like the pipa, the sanxian may accompany narrative song, changing its tuning to accommodate the singer. The bat decorating the finials of this instrument is a symbol of good fortune and appears on many Chinese objects.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th century

Medium

Wood, various materials

Culture

Chinese

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889