Sanxian

Description

Grove Dictionary of Musical Instruments describes the instrument as a 'Long-necked lute of the Han Chinese'; the three strings, tuned a 4th and a 5th apart, are plucked with the fingernails or a plectrum. Consists of a long neck that extends through the body and has a 'spatula-shaped scroll'; three hexagonal tapered pegs inserted from opposite sides of the peg box; bridge is missing; oval-shaped body covered on both sides with ?snake skin; piece of faded cord tied around the neck.