Heike Biwa, c. 1850. Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912). Wood, bone, silk; overall: x 30 cm (36 9/16 x 11 13/16 in.). The Heike biwa, used to recite the Tale of Heike, is one of at least five different biwa styles derived from the Chinese pi-pa. It appeared in Japan during the 8th century and, unlike its predecessor, uses a triangular-shaped plectrum and is held more horizontally. Influenced by the recitations of blind priests, the Heike biwa music reflects the mood of the chanted text. Benzaiten (Benten), Japanese Buddhist goddess of music, poetry, and education, is often pictured playing
Heike Biwa, c. 1850. Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912). Wood, bone, silk; overall: x 30 cm (36 9/16 x 11 13/16 in.). The Heike biwa, used to recite the Tale of Heike, is one of at least five different biwa styles derived from the Chinese pi-pa. It appeared in Japan during the 8th century and, unlike its predecessor, uses a triangular-shaped plectrum and is held more horizontally. Influenced by the recitations of blind priests, the Heike biwa music reflects the mood of the chanted text. Benzaiten (Benten), Japanese Buddhist goddess of music, poetry, and education, is often pictured playing the biwa.
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Photo credit: © CMA/BOT / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
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