Zande Thumb Harp (Kalimba), D.R. Congo
Tax excluded. Shipping calculated at checkout
Pickup available at Hemingway African Gallery
Usually ready in 1 hour
Zande Thumb Harp (Kalimba), D.R. Congo
Hemingway African Gallery
88 Leonard St.
New York NY 10013
United States
Description of Significance
The Zande Kalimba is a type of thumb piano that originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The thumb piano, also known as a kalimba or mbira, is an African instrument that belongs to the idiophone family. This means that its sound is produced primarily by the instrument vibrating without the use of strings or membranes.
Modern thumb pianos are typically made of wood with metal tines that are plucked with the fingers to create the sound. However, ancient thumb pianos were made out of gourds or wood with bamboo and/or metal tines. The Zande Kalimba is a particularly impressive example of this type of instrument, with a unique design and expert craftsmanship.
Thumb pianos have been used in African music for centuries and are considered an important part of many cultures. They are often used in traditional ceremonies and are also popular in contemporary music. The Zande Kalimba is a testament to the rich musical traditions of the Democratic Republic of Congo and an impressive example of the ingenuity and creativity of African instrument makers.
Origin
- Handcrafted for ceremonial use in D.R. Congo
Dimensions (inches)
- Depth: 1"
- Width: 5.5"
- Height: 8"
Materials
- Indigenous wood
- Metal
Display
- This piece includes the base shown.
- Please let us know if you are interested in a different display option.
Shipping
- Shipped with FedEx Ground.
- A declared value is included in the shipping so a signature is required for delivery.
Hemingway Gallery regards antique African art as the best artistic expression of aesthetic beauty and storytelling throughout the known history of art. Aside from artistic taste, African art accrues value in different ways than other genres, including use in ceremonial settings as well as age. 50 years can be regarded as old or antique when it comes to wood masks and totems. Hemingway Gallery provides both authoritative insight and context into each artifact in the collection, possessing and readily exhibiting direct, intimate knowledge of the source and pedigree. The goal is to preserve and curate one-of-a-kind artifacts of importance while creating a platform for the acquisition of spectacular unique pieces within financial reach.
Our pricing reflects the asking prices set by the artists, artisans, and art dealers in the African countries where we collect, as well as the real costs of responsibly importing their work to the United States. We are committed to challenging the outdated notion that fine art from Africa should be undervalued. Paying artists fairly is our highest priority, and our pricing is structured to honor their skill, labor, and cultural contribution.
Free shipping often means the cost is hidden in the product price, a common tactic that can mislead buyers. In fine art, transparency matters—buyers shouldn’t pay for shipping they don’t use. That’s why our pricing is straightforward, without hidden fees, ensuring fairness whether you pick up your art or have it shipped.
We ship around the world! Our website does not process automatic international shipping rates. Please contact us directly for custom shipping quotes outside the USA, (including Hawaii and Alaska).
Please email us at info@hemingwayafricangallery.com or call 212-838-3650 with the SKU # for further information about this specific piece.
Choose options