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Lute Sapeh (Hasapi) from Borneo, Sumatra

Currency:USD Category:Memorabilia / Music Memorabilia Start Price:25.00 USD Estimated At:50.00 - 70.00 USD
Lute Sapeh (Hasapi) from Borneo, Sumatra
DISCLAIMER: PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL ITEMS ARE SOLD IN “AS IS” CONDITION, WITHOUT ANY WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. THE ITEMS OFFERED WERE ALL COLLECTED FOR THEIR DISPLAYABILITY, AND MAY OR MAY NOT BE IN WORKING CONDITION. Please call us at (818) 937-9399 or email us at blacksparrowauctions@gmail.com for condition reports or any general inquiry.
The Toba Batak people of northern Sumatra create elegant, two-stringed lutes known as hasapi (in Borneo they are called Sapeh) and made from the trunk of a tree). These lutes are mostly used in intimate indoor settings. Today, hasapi are generally played as part of musical ensembles. The composition of hasapi ensembles varies but typically includes a lead hasapi playing the melody and a second hasapi playing accompaniment, as well as a flute, small drum, xylophone, and other instruments. In the past, most Batak music was sacred and, among other contexts, the hasapi was played as part of a love-magic ritual designed to win a woman's affections. However, virtually all Toba Batak are now Christians and hasapi music is intended as secular entertainment. Measures 5" x 32". Exhibits missing strings and one tuning peg. Other tuning peg broken and adhered with duct tape. Otherwise, in good condition. From the collection of Ken McMeans. 20% of the proceeds will benefit the Jeremy Wilson Foundation.