Southwestern Apache Fiddle

Amos Gustina, maker

Plant stalk, pigment, wood
First quarter of the 20th century
Length: 17 in
Chordophones – Zither – Bowed

This Apache Fiddle, commonly called tsii’edo’a’tl (Apache for “wood that sings”) is created by the renowned Apache artist, Amos Gustina (1858-1945).  It is made from the dried stalk of an agave plant and is also called ki’zh ki’zh di’hi (buzz sound), which describes the musical sound created when played. This instrument was commonly used to play ceremonial songs, social dance songs and love songs.

The Apache people are a nomadic tribe that originated in Alaska and Canada and migrated southward to the American Southwest.  This Apache fiddle was made when the Apache occupied areas of present-day New Mexico, Texas, and Arizona.

All is original except for conservation purposes, a braided natural hemp cord is added at each end to support and prevent further cracking of the tubular body, plus the addition of a hand carved tuning peg. Missing is the horse tail string and a bow. Good condition with a slight crack in the back halfway up.