Śahanāī

Unknown

19th century · Wood, brass · Musical Instruments

Unlike the straight tubes of related double-reed instruments found in other Asian countries, this melodic instrument has a curved conical bore. To achieve the curve, the wood body (agli) is cut in two longitudinal halves that are joined together with a glue of heated sugar-cane juice and secured with cane rings. Most Nepali musicians employ circular breathing to facilitate a continuous melodic line of music or to provide a constant drone.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th century

Medium

Wood, brass

Culture

Nepalese

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

Gift of Krishna Man Manandhar, 1986