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Thumb Piano

Luba Sanza (kasanjis) 8-Keyed

Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire)
Luba

Wood and Metal
ca. Mid-20th century

Height: 12.5 inches
Idiophone - Plucked - Lamellophone

Among the Luba, the thumb-piano is called kasanjis. Luba use their kasanjis to play tunes that recall the past and praise the king. Praise songs are also sung to encourage bravery, express joy, and lead ceremonies to honor the dead.

 

Owner:
Catalog#: AF-IDPL-42-33