Myanmar (Burma) An exceptional large Burmese "Saung-gauk" harp, associated with the court music of the Buddhist dynasties of Burma. The padauk wood soundbox is covered with several layers of black lacquer. The deerskin soundboard is also covered in several layers of red lacquer. The highly arched neck is made from an acacia root, with curved ornamentation at the end for an elegant look. A longitudinal wooden bar fixed under the soundboard serves as a tailpiece. The sixteen twisted silk strings are attached to the neck by a system of complex ligatures ending in cotton tassels. The perimeter of the harp and its stand are adorned with decorative motifs in gilded foliage and inlaid with small pieces of mica or glass, as well as semi-precious stones. The "Saung-gauk" harp is a prestigious piece of workmanship and holds a special place in the history of musical instruments in general and harps in particular. The Met in New York and the Musée de la Musique in Paris own similar examples. W: 93 cm, H: 84 cm Padouk wood, deerskin, silk, glass, semi-precious stones In playable condition Bibliographical references: Musée de l'Homme. Salon de musique, Paris, 1987