Artifacts

Antique "Serengi" Lute from Nepal

Antique "Serengi" Lute from Nepal
This beautiful artifact is referred to by a generic name for stringed instruments, sarangi or serengi, in the middle to lower hills of Nepal, where it is traditionally found. It is an antique form of the four stringed lute still played by wandering musicians throughout Nepal. This handsome example is carved from a dense hardwood that has developed a gorgeous patina from age and use. The instrument is surmounted by four androgynous, anthropomorphic figures with minimally rendered features. The figures feature similar charming hair buns on the backs of their heads.

The neck and sides are deeply carved in abstract organic forms. On the left side there is an interesting primitively carved depiction of a human figure under a tree with a snake-like form hanging down beside him. The instrument measures 29 in. high, 5.5 in. across the top, and 4.75 in. across the widest part of the sound box. Antique serengis such as this are very hard to acquire in the field today and have found a very appreciative audience in the field of Tribal Art.  
$1,250