A Japanese traditional musical stringed instrument, koto, Edo period

The stringed instrument of small proportions, 13-string koto, made from paulownia wood and lacquered, the briges, ji, also made from wood, with silk strings, the bridge with figured burl wood, further decorated and lacquered in black with gilt decoration and horn inlay, together with a Georgian display case by Hobbs & Co. London

(Quantity:2)

Dimensions: the koto 53cm long, the case 91cm long

Previously bought by Henry Potter Stevens from the auction of Ditchingham House, Norwich/Bungay Road, August 1945. Ditchingham House was the home of Sir Arthur Rider Haggard, author known for works such as King Soloman's Mines.

Every part of the koto has a traditional name, reflecting the belief that the instrument’s body resembles that of a dragon. The upper surface is called the “dragon’s shell” (竜甲, ryuko), while the underside is known as the “dragon’s stomach” (竜腹, ryufuku). One end of the koto is distinguished by its removable, colorful fabric covering which is referred to as the “dragon’s head” (竜頭, ryuzu). This section includes features such as the “dragon’s horns” (竜角, ryukaku), which form the bridge saddle or makurazono (枕角); the “dragon’s tongue” (竜舌, ryuzetsu); the “dragon’s eyes” (竜眼, ryugan), or string holes; and the “dragon’s forehead” (竜額, ryugaku), the area above the makurazono. The opposite end of the instrument is called the “dragon’s tail” (竜尾, ryubi), and the string nut is poetically named the “cloud horn” (雲角, unkaku).