Sarasvati vina, veena
India, Tamil Nadu, Tanjore
Second half of the 19th century
Jackwood, papier-mâché, metal, seven metal strings, bone
Acquired in Geneva in 1987
MEG Inv. ETHMU 045732
Notice
This veena is mentioned in connection with Sarasvati, the Indian goddess of the arts and knowledge. It is played in the repertories of Carnatic music, the classical tradition of southern India, which groups various musical forms developed in princely courts, the theatre and places of worship.
The resonator extends into a neck which ends in a downward curve decorated with the head of a dragon, known for its protective powers. A second resonator is attached under the neck.
Bibliography
- Aubert, Laurent. 1987. A propos d'une sarasvati vina du Sud de l'Inde: 7 cordes pour une déesse. Genève : Bulletin du Musée d'Etnographie N° 29
- Anandi Roy et Catherine Zalay. 1995. CD Shanti. Paris: Belladona 4741212.
- Tran Van Khe. 1975. CD L'art de la vina. Boulogne: Playa Sound PS 65015.
- Regula Qureshi, et al. "India." Grove Music Online. Oxford Music Online. Oxford University Press. Web. 6 Jan. 2017.
- Aubert, Laurent. 1991. Planete musicale, instruments de musique des cinq continents. Turin: Ivrea., 66
- Aubert, Laurent (dir.). 2012. L'Air du Temps - Musiques populaires dans le monde. Rennes : Editions Apogée., 50
© 2015 Musée d'ethnographie, Genève
Ville de Genève, Département de la culture et du sport