Kru Harp

Harps like this one, are commonly known as Kru (or Kroo) harps. They are made from a spherical gourd resonator, to which is attached a Y-shaped piece of wood, fastened with fibre and gum, and wrapped in animal hide. Strings of fibre are lashed across the Y, inserted through holes carved in one side, and tied to the other. This example is, however incomplete and missing its resonator. It was purchased at the 1924 British Empire Exhibition in Wembley, London and acquired by the British Museum in 1954.

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Further Information

  • Type: Musical instruments
  • Object: Kru Harp
  • Materials: Wood, Vegetable, organic fibre
  • Culture Group: Other
  • Dimensions: 400mm [L] x 470mm [W]
  • Production Date: Pre 1954
  • Associated Places: Unknown
  • Associated People: Wellcome Historical Medical Museum
  • Museum: British Museum
  • Accession Number: BM:Af.1954.23.3706

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