Dhodro Banam - 02

This wooden, hand-carved musical instrument is from the Santal community who live in the Indian states of Bihar, Orissa and West Bengal. It is a folk fiddle or lute like instrument called a Dhodro Banam. The Dhodro Banam is a type of lute with a partially open body that is covered with skin on the lower part (now missing). This instrument is played with a bow in the manner of a violin, but in a vertical position, which means the carving of the striking head at the top faces the audience. Also carved on the instrument, below the head, are two lovely figures dancing, and then there are diamond carved designs running down the stem of the instrument. These are echoed by triangular designs on either side of the top of the body. The piece includes a metal stand specifically made to display the instrument.
This instrument measures 3.5 x 3.75 x 21.5 inches without the stand and 3.5 x 3.75 x 23 inches with the stand.