Lute

Miraj Style Tanpura

India
India

Wood, gourd, bone, metal strings
Early 20th century

Height: 55 inches

This Miraj style drone instrument, called "tanpura" (tanpoora) is common in North India. It is 5 feet, has four metal strings that are plucked one string after the other in a pattern to create the tonic resonance field of the Hindustani classical music. It is characterized by a well-rounded resonator plate (tabli) and a long, hollow straight fretless neck. The round lower chamber to which the tabli, the connecting heel-piece made of teak wood and the neck (dandh) are fixed is actually a selected and dried gourd (tumba). The inlay designs and bridges are cut from bone. This large "tanpura" is known as the male, while smaller ones are known as females.

Owner:
Catalog#: AS-CHLT-12

© Hartenberger World Music Collection