Vintage African Carved Hardwood and Hand-Forged Metal Sanza Thumb Piano

A traditional African lamellophone, regional names for which include sanza, likembe, or mbira. The instrument is constructed from a solid block of dark-stained hardwood, carved into a tapered rectangular form. It features six hand-forged metal tines of varying lengths, which are flattened at the tips. These tines are held in place by a transverse metal bridge and secured to the wooden body with wire lacing that passes through the soundboard. The front of the wooden body is decorated with incised geometric carvings, including a semicircular motif containing two circular recessed details and bordered by a notched pattern. The wood exhibits a deep patina and smoothing of the edges consistent with age and handling. A twisted natural fibre cord is threaded through two holes at the top.
Length: approximately 15 cm – 20 cm.