Title | Thumb Piano 10 Keys Musical Instrument African Art wood on turtle shell |
Type of Object | Musical instrument |
Country of Origin | unknown, possibly Democratic Republic of the Congo |
Materials | metal 10 keys |
Other Dimensions | Height: 1 3/4 Inches Width: 5 Inches Long: 8 Inches |
Overall Condition | good for age |
Damage/Repair | coating covering turtle shell came loose. and some scratches ( see photos), |
Additional Information: Thumb pianos are traditional musical instrument known throughout the African continent. Varieties of thumb pianos are made found in western, central, and southern Africa. thumb piano is used to accompany an orchestra or a singer. Usually they are play by story tellers and specialist of the clan history and chief's court musicians. Seeds grains or stones are put in the box to improve the quality of the sound being produced.