Shawm
Vernacular Name
- Haidi
- Aizai
- Suona
Date1920-1935 ca.
Place MadeChina, Asia
Serial No.none
SignednoneMarkingsIllegible Chinese characters on the distal end of the body.
DescriptionConical, double-reed instrument of the suona family. This smaller variant is commonly used in wedding processions. Scalloped hardwood body with bronze bell and fittings. The haidi, or "sea flute," is a regular member of Chinese opera ensembles.
Reed made of riverweed, wrapped with wire prior to insertion into the pirouette. To play, the entire reed is placed inside the mouth and the player's lips are pressed against the metal disc at the upper end of the pirouette. Musicians employ circular breathing to maintain a continuous supply of air passing through the reed.
The inscription might refer to the troupe that used this instrument, rather than the maker.
DimensionsTotal height: 335 mm
Bell diameter: 86 mm
Credit LineArne B. Larson Collection, 1979
Object number01531
On View
Not on view
1950-1970 ca.
1885-1899 ca.
1945-1950 ca.
1850-1900 ca.