Lute (Hasapi)

Mark A. Johnson Tribal Art

The Toba Batak people of northern Sumatra create elegant two-stringed lutes known as hasapi.  In contrast to more public instruments, such as gong orchestras, which are played for large outdoor events, hasapi are used in more intimate indoor settings. 

This beautiful example has a figure riding on the back of a mythical Singha figure, with two smaller figures underneath.

Wood, pigments.  Late 19th to early 20th century.

$1,850.00

Artwork details