Cleveland Museum of Art · late 1800s
Lamellophone (chisanji)
The thumb piano portrays a wonderfully animated man riding a curious quadruped. His hat suggests he is probably a trader ( pombeiro ) engaged in long-distance commerce.
The CMA acquired this plucky instrument in 1915, one year before it opened to the public.
| Date | late 1800s |
|---|---|
| Culture / origin | Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo or Angola, Chokwe-style maker |
| Materials | Wood, iron, and wire |
| Dimensions | Overall: 19.1 x 10.2 x 6.4 cm (7 1/2 x 4 x 2 1/2 in.) |
| Credit | The Harold T. Clark Educational Extension Fund |
