African, Mande/Mangbetu. (Mali.) musical instrument. Wood, with multiple strings of graduated length, stretching from the sound box to points on the anthropomorphic female neck.

Strings, which are currently slack, can be tightened using the tension adjusters on the neck.

Ca.1945. Acquired by us in 1991

Full disclosure: while this instrument was played in Africa by tribe members, it would require tuning to be playable in its current condition. Principal value is its appearance.
36”h #AGV163

Because of the exotic shape of this instrument, shipping costs must be established based on the destination address. Please contact us at sanibelart@gmail.com before ordering if you are interested in purchasing.