Title
Banhu
Year/Period
Probably early-mid 20th century
Region
China
Object Type
bowed string instruments
Material
wood (plant material), shell (animal material), shell (plant material)
Technique
woodworking, assembling (additive and joining process)
Dimension
Object size: H:73 x W:13.8 x D:17 cm
Accession No.
2012-00601
Collection of
Credit Line
Gift of Singapore Tourism Board
NLB Type
Musical instrument
The banhu is a bowed string instrument, which is popularly used in Northern Chinese folk music, particularly as an accompaniment in folk operas. The body of the instrument is typically made of coconut shell. A small seashell serves as the bridge. The body or resonator of this piece is carved with the image of a deer standing under a pine tree, both symbols of longevity. This instrument originally belonged to the Er Woo Amateur Musical and Dramatic Association, which was formed in 1912 by a group of Teochew businessmen in Singapore. The Association sought to promote Han opera and music, which originated in Hubei, China, in the 16th century.
