|
MYANMAR HARP
In 10th century A.D., musicians used only 5 strings in Myanmar harp, which later increased to 7 strings in 18th century. During King Bodaw Pharar the art of playing harp was much promoted by the King and was improved to using up to 13 springs by Mya Waddi Mingyi U Sa. Later it was changed to 14 strings and 15 strings by legendary U Thein. The instrument today has 16 strings as U Ba Than developed to a modern model. Myanmar harp's composition is very interesting: In general harp size, it is 18 inches length at bottom and 39 inches high. The hollow body is made of rosewood, padauk or mahogany, the flat bar made of cutch wood, the strings are made of silk and it is covered with the leather of a female deer.
High quality merchandise is tightly woven and doesn't skimp on sequins, which spaced side by side as a sign of embroidery skill. Metals used should shine, even in older pieces. Age is not necessarily a factor value except when related to better quality work. Prices vary according to the size and quality. LACQUER-WARE Probably the most popular purchase in Myanmar is lacquer-ware, lacquer-ware in particular has developed into an art form of refined quality. Its history can be traced to China's Shang dynasty(18th to 11th centuries B.C.). The craft reached the area of present-day Myanmar in the 1st century A.D. by way of the Nan-Ch'ao Empire (modern Yunnan), and is believed to have been carried to Bagan during King Anawrahta's conquest of Thaton in 1057.
The lacquer ware is engraved and painted, then polished to remove the paint from everywhere except in the engravings. Multicolored lacquer ware is produced by repeated engraving, painting and polishing. From start to finish it can take five or six months to produce a high quality piece of lacquer ware which may have as many as five colours. Flexibility is one characteristic of good lacquer ware. A top quality bowl can have its rim squeezed together until the sides meet without suffering damage. The quality and precision of the engraving is another thing to look for. Lacquer ware is made into bowls, trays, plates, boxes, containers, cups vases, jewel boxes, dinnerware set and many other everyday items. The octagonal topped folding tables are another popular lacquer ware item.
|