Kru Harp

Harps like this one, are commonly known as Kru (or Kroo) harps. They are made from a semi-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 has been painted black.

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Further Information

• Type: Musical instruments
• Object: Kru Harp
• Materials: Wood, Vegetable, organic fibre, Leather, animal skin
• Culture Group: Other
• Dimensions: 455mm [H] x 390mm [W] x 200mm [C]
• Production Date: Pre 1952
• Associated Places: Unknown
• Associated People: Church Missionary Society [Collector]
• Museum: British Museum
• Accession Number: BM:Af.1952.7.9

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