Harp

Uganda Ennanga

Uganda
Uganda Region

Wood, Leather, String, Cowrie Shells
ca. Mid-20th century

Height: 30 inches
Chordophone - Harp - Plucked

Figurative Arch Harp from the Ganda People called Ennanga (Nanga or Enanga). This quite large (30" long) instrument is carved from wood. The hollowed-out belly has been covered with a stretched rawhide. Cord hardened with resin and cowrie shells have been used as decoration. This harp was used to play a continuo to accompany storytelling or singing. There are four strings, apparently made of gut, tightened with pegs. The instrument, in common with so many West African stringed instruments, is anthropomorphic, with a head, a belly and two feet. It makes a gentle sound a little like a ukelele. This is not a tourist item but a genuine (and rare) tribal item.

Owner:
Catalog#: AF-CHHP-17-57

© Hartenberger World Music Collection