Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, India
Indian

Copper
Early – Mid 20th century
Length mouthpiece to bell: 21 in, Height: 17 in, Bell/base length: 12.5 in, Tube diameter: 1 in, Bell diameter: 3.75 in
Aerophones – Wind Instruments Proper – Lip Vibrated

The nagphani is a traditional instrument found in the states of Uttarakhand, Rajasthan and Gujarat, India.  It is a brass horn/trumpet that is stylized as a serpent, with four tight coils.  The tail serves as the mouthpiece, where the player buzzes their lips. The serpent-shaped head serves as the bell and has a forked tongue extending out of the bell.  The movement of this metal tongue and embouchure (buzzing lips) adjustments, both support a variety of pitches.  The nagphani is used by “sadhus” (holy men) during ritual ceremonies, story tellers and street performers.