A JAPANESE KOTO ZITHER  TRADITIONAL STRINGED INSTRUMENT A JAPANESE KOTO ZITHER  TRADITIONAL STRINGED INSTRUMENT A JAPANESE KOTO ZITHER  TRADITIONAL STRINGED INSTRUMENT A JAPANESE KOTO ZITHER  TRADITIONAL STRINGED INSTRUMENT A JAPANESE KOTO ZITHER  TRADITIONAL STRINGED INSTRUMENT A JAPANESE KOTO ZITHER  TRADITIONAL STRINGED INSTRUMENT A JAPANESE KOTO ZITHER  TRADITIONAL STRINGED INSTRUMENT

Lot 139 A JAPANESE KOTO ZITHER TRADITIONAL STRINGED INSTRUMENT

Reference: ART2002301

This elegant and finely crafted instrument is a Japanese Koto, a traditional 13-string zither and one of the most iconic and revered instruments in Japanese musical culture.The body is carved from richly grained paulownia wood, displaying a beautifully polished, natural finish. The instrument is long and rectangular with a subtly curved top surface, designed to enhance resonance. The strings are made from silk or synthetic fiber, and are carefully looped at one end and stretched tightly over the length of the instrument.The upper section is adorned with golden silk cord bindings and decorative motifs, including stylized heart-shaped cutouts under the strings—features often seen in classical and aristocratic koto design. These add both aesthetic detail and acoustic balance.
Accompanying the koto is a wooden storage box containing a full set of movable synthetic bridges (ji), which are used to tune and support each string individually. A tuning tool and traditional accessories are also included.Traditionally played while seated, the koto produces a delicate and lyrical sound, used in gagaku (court music), chamber ensembles, and contemporary compositions. It symbolizes grace, discipline, and harmony in Japanese culture.
This piece is ideal for musicians, collectors, or admirers of Japanese classical arts, and reflects centuries of refined craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
184 x 24 cm.

Estimate
€700 - €900
Minimum bid
€600