Shawms, set of two (2)
Date1885-1899 ca.
Place MadeTibet, Asia
Serial No.none
SignednoneMarkingsnone
DescriptionDouble-reed woodwind instrument with hardwood body and copper and brass bell and mouthpiece fittings. Blue and red colored glass embellishments. Acts as primary melodic voice in monastic ensemble playing.
The rgya gling's double reeds are made from a single stem of marsh grass, folded and creased sharply, then rounded at the upper end. The player's entire mouth is placed around the reed, but does not touch it; rather, the lips are pressed against the flat metal disc below the reed, which facilitates circular breathing. This technique allows musicians to play extended passages.
DimensionsLength: 420 mm
Bell diameter: 185 mm
ProvenancePurchased in 1979 from Wurlitzer-Bruck, New York, New York.
Published ReferencesCross, Thomas E., Instruments of Burma, India, Nepal, Thailand and Tibet, SMM Catalog Vol. II (1982), p. 28.
Cross, Thomas E., Instruments of Burma, India, Nepal, Thailand and Tibet, M.M. Thesis, University of South Dakota, May 1983, p. 71, plate XXVI.
Credit LineBoard of Trustees, 1979
Object number02584
On View
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