This object is a fictional model that was brought back as a souvenir from Albania in the 1980s. Nevertheless, it remains a very beautiful object.
This Gusle has a carved animal head at the top end. This is likely a type of antelope called a Chamoix, an animal common to the mountainous regions. This instrument appears to be carved from one solid piece of wood, possibly maple, and then stained to a medium-dark brown color. There is a cord for hanging.
The Gusle has a hollow resonator (covered with stretched goat skin), and the neck is hand carved from what we suspect is maple.
The back of the instrument has a beautiful carved floral design. The resonance chamber is covered with a tightly stretched goat skin leather which is held in place by small nails around the edge.
The instrument is 28 inches (71cm) long by 5.75 inches (14.5cm) wide - making this a full size replica instrument.
In the traditional culture of the region, a full sized Gusle would be placed between the musician’s knees and the fingers of his or her left hand would be on the string, probably adjusting the tone by pressing on them, but never all the way to the handle. The right hand would use the bow to produce a unique harmonic sound. It was often accompanied by singing or epic poetry.
The name gusle/gusli/gusla is common to all Slavs and denotes a string instrument.
This souvenir model is in quite good condition compared to the few others I saw on line. There are no chips or cracks in the wood.
Gusle weight: approx 600g.
Please see images and condition note before purchasing.
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