This is the rating and price for 19Th C. African Hemba Wood & Iron Mbira Instrument

Description : Central Africa, Dominican Republic of Congo, Hemba peoples, ca. 19th to 20th century CE. A mbira, also known as a finger harp, thumb piano, or sanza- a musical instrument and work of art popular throughout Africa- artisans traditionally have created these with figural carvings to honor ancestors. Seated atop the sound box is a male singiti or chieftain figure, seated with his hands resting on knees. Mbria are considered percussion instruments used in many ceremonial functions, including dance, storytelling, and other rituals. This example is made of wood with 7 iron keys attached to an iron bridge, meant to be plucked with one's thumbs. The sound box is hollow with sound holes on the side and verso- the upper surface engraved with geometric markings. The rich shiny, deep brown patina from years of handling and use. Size: 4 L x 2.5 W x 12 H (10.2 cm x 6.4 cm x 30.5 cm) Provenance: private San Francisco, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm. Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping. #170942
Price: 379.50 USD It's free to register now to view!
Estimate (low-high) : 600 USD-900 USD It's free to register now to view!

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