Sanza Zaramo Lamellophone from Tanzania. - Lot 162

Sanza Zaramo Lamellophone from Tanzania. Widely used in Central Africa, this musical instrument, or sanza, consists of a resonance box to which metal tongues of varying lengths are attached. The soundboard formed by the support, with holes on each side, contains seeds that produce a sound when the object is manipulated. The thumbs of both hands press against the board to vibrate the front ends of the tongues. In Zaire, however, where all fingers are used as for the piano, groups of instruments play in complementary registers. Sometimes, the instrument will also accompany a singer. Although sanzas are often decorated with traditional motifs, this example features a few broken lines that are now indistinct. Velvety patina. 20 x 15 cm