South central region of the Democratic Republic of Congo
Luba

Wood, metal, coins
Early-Mid 20th Century
Height: 9 in, Width: 5.5 in, Depth: 1.25 in
Idiophone – Lamellophones – Plucked

This lamellophone possibly comes from the Luba people of the Congo and is called a kisanji (sanza).  It consists of a sounding board on which nine (9) parallel metal blades of varying lengths have been attached and suspended over a broad U-shape iron bridge. The kisanji is decorated with incised geometric designs and circles reflective of the Luba artisans. There are two metal coins and a washer attached by screws on the lower front portion of the sounding board.  It shows a brown patina and abrasions from usage and age.