Koto (箏)

Unknown

20th century · Various woods, ivory, metal, nylon, tortoiseshell, abalone, lacquerwork · Musical Instruments

Koto music was introduced into Japan during the Nara period (710–794) and developed in the court. It gradually entered the homes of the rising commercial class, where it was considered a sign of refinement. This instrument is decorated with scenes from The Tale of Genji, a classic work of eleventh-century Japanese literature.

Artist

Unknown

Date

20th century

Medium

Various woods, ivory, metal, nylon, tortoiseshell, abalone, lacquerwork

Culture

Japanese

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

Gift of the Todes Family, 1986