Luth, Biwa Japan, Meiji Period

Wooden Biwa, Lute with short handle, shallow and rounded body with peacock, flowers and butterfly decoration. Mother-of-pearl inlays.

Missing the four strings, small accidents.

Meiji period.

The biwa is the preferred instrument of the goddess of music and poetry, Benzaiten. It was introduced in the 8th century with the arrival of Chinese influences, and its style will evolve over time. The melody of the biwa has long accompanied tales and war stories. It has now become a rare traditional instrument because of its sharp workmanship: it is carved from a single piece of wood. Its mastery requires many years of practice.

This instrument gave its name to Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, because of the resemblance of the shape of the lake with its silhouette.