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1 of 253523 objects
Myanmar
Crocodile zither (mi-gyuang)
Wood, gilt, gut | 20 x 121 x 25.5 cm (whole object) | RCIN 74398
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A stringed musical instrument, known as a crocodile zither (mi-gyuang or kyam), traditionally played by the Mon people of Burma. It is made of light varnished wood, partly gilt, in the shape of a crocodile with an upturned head from which six strings (now missing) would have extended to the turned dark wood tuning pegs on either side of the 'tail'; it sits on four gilt paws. It would have been played by plucking the strings.
Traditionally played in musical ensembles by the Mon people of Burma (now Myanmar), who referred to it as a kyam. Instruments of this form were made across what is now Myanmar, Thailand and Cambodia. The most realistic, with teeth and other facial features, were made in lower Burma. -
Creator(s)
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Medium and techniques
Wood, gilt, gut
Measurements
20 x 121 x 25.5 cm (whole object)
Place of Production
Myanmar
