Sgra-Snyan

Unknown Maker

late 19th century · Wood, hide, wire, polychrome · Musical Instruments

The sgra-snyan is a folk lute of the Himalayas and is found throughout Tibet and Bhutan. It features in Drukpa Buddhist culture and is often played during religious festivals. Folk stories and dancing are also accompanied by the sgra-snyan. Painted lotus flowers and a soundhole carved in the form of an endless knot decorate this example. Both number among the eight auspicious emblems of Buddhism.

Artist

Unknown Maker

Date

late 19th century

Medium

Wood, hide, wire, polychrome

Culture

Tibetan

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

Purchase, Gift of Robert Alonzo Lehman, by exchange, and Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Mandeville, by exchange, 2001