China
Chinese

Wood, silk, gold gilt
 Possibly Ming dynasty (1368-1644)
Length: 46.625 in, Width: 10.5 in, Depth: 4.25 in
Chordophones – Zithers

This antique Chinese Imperial guqin has 7 strings and is decorated with four-character Qianlong marked inscriptions in gold gilt.  Unlike the guzheng, there are no moveable bridges on the guqin.  It is the most ancient Chinese stringed instrument, with a history of over 3000 years. Its music is often associated with scholar culture.  Many Chinese families also use the guqin as a decoration on the wall to show as a symbol of scholar class.

This seven-stringed zither is also played in Taiwan. Often referred to as the instrument of the sages, the guqin was Confucius’ chosen instrument.  The lacquer covering this guqin has created a complex pattern of craquelure, valued for its aesthetic enhancement and is an indication of the age.