The Tabwa are an ethnic and linguistic group living primarily on the southwestern shores of Lake Tanganyika, on the Marangu massif in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and in southwestern Tanzania and northeastern Zambia. Tabwa carvers produce many beautiful utilitarian objects such as combs, drums, and bellows, but also produce sculpted figures representing ancestors and twin figures.
Like it is the case with most African instruments, the traditional purpose of the thumb piano isn’t entertainment. It often has religious functions. Its sound may attract spirits and ancestors, seeking their advice. It may be played to honour certain people or to accompany weddings and funerals. This is a fine old music instrument and shows signs of age and usage
- Material: wood, metallic rods
- Age: approx 50-60yrs
- Origin: Democratic Republic Of Congo
- Condition: Excellent
- SKU: LSTA-087
- Weight: 0.5 kg
- Dimensions: 13.3 x 28 x 3 cm