West African Raft Zither

• Title West African Raft Zither
• Category Utilitarian
• Medium Bamboo
• Dimensions 15.25"h x 6"w
• Description West African rattle
• Notes This instrument is a part of the family of instruments named ubo, meaning to pluck or bow. The zither is comprised of several cane stalks bound together.* The strings are made by raising the hard part of the canes on both sides. The front strings are played, while the back strings act as resonators. The back of the instrument has a mat woven through the stalks, containing pebbles which rattle as the instrument is played. These typically are found in the Anambra and Gongola States. Much of the music of West Africa is played in ensembles at masquerades, festivals, funerals, etc. Since it is associated with dance, the rhythmic effect is important. This is the reason for the prevalence of percussion instruments. *J.N. Lo-Bamijoko, “Classification of Igbo Musical Instruments, Nigeria.” (African Music, vol.6, no. 4, 1987), 19-41.
• Artist
• Credit Clyde and Annie Matters Collection
• Location Library Art Storage H7
• Accession Number 1994.0032.a
• Status Available Request this art work
  
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