"Xiangpu’s Treasure" Guqin (古琴 )

Unknown

mid 19th century · wutong wood, lacquer, mother-of-pearl, silk, jade · Musical Instruments

The quqin (ancient zither), China’s ancient and venerated 7-stringed zither, during its long history has taken several forms. For many, the double-waisted profile of the classic “Confucian style" qin is the most familiar of the twelve or so that appear. This example known as a "banana leaf style" ( 焦葉) or Jiaoye pattern, is a popular variation taking its name from its undulating sides. Other construction elements like the 13 mother-of-pearl buttons (hui) that indicate finger positions remain the same. Two inscriptions, one referencing the owner's discovery of the instrument in 1872 and its restoration, the other relating the story of Zhong Ziqi and Yu Boya appear on the back along with a seal bearing the instrument's name, "Xiangpu's Treasure".

Artist

Unknown

Date

mid 19th century

Medium

wutong wood, lacquer, mother-of-pearl, silk, jade

Culture

Chinese

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2016