Java, Indonesia
Javanese

Wood, coconut shell, buffalo, cloth
Mid 20th century
Length: 38.5 in, Width: 7.6 in, Depth: 2.5 in
Chordophones – Lutes

This rebab is a Javanese two metal string spike-fiddle used in the courtly music of the gamelan orchestra and folk music. It has a slightly heart shaped body of half a coconut shell covered with buffalo bladder and a large bridge that rests on the soundhead. The neck is very long and thin, as are the two tuning pegs. The instrument, when played is bowed with loose strings.  It is placed on the floor in front of the seated musician who is usually the orchestra leader.  The sides of the coconut shell are covered with colorful strands of cloth and yarn and it has an ornately carved wooden bow.  The rebab usually plays a melodic line that is interwoven with the gamelan ensemble, suling flute, or lead singer.