Kayagum

Korea

19th century

Wood, lacquer and inlaid mother-of-pearl

Minneapolis Institute of Art

<I>Kayagum</I>, a twelve string zither, is related to the Chinese <I>ch'in</I> and the Japanese <I>koto</I>. It is played by plucking the strings with the right hand while depressing the strings for tonal variations with the left hand. Such musical instruments were often elaborately embellished with mother-of-pearl inlay. This <I>kayagum</I> has designs of flying cranes, symbols of longevity, and other auspicious symbols. Gallery Not on View Gift of funds from the Asian Art Council and Ruth and Bruce Dayton