Myanmar Harp
Myanmar harp is one of the musical instrument of Myanmar people. The instrument has been introduced since A.D. 802. The harp is called "Saung" in Myanmar, there were two types: Byat Saung and Saung Gauk(Bent Saung). There almost nobody can play Byat Saung these days. 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 and was improved to using up to 13 springs. Later it was changed to 14 strings and 15 strings by legendary. 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.
Tapestry (Gold / Silver embroidery)
The art of tapestry or "Shwe Chi Hto" as we call it, is said to have originated in Myanmar about a thousand years ago. Tapestries are also one of the most popular and bargains in Myanmar. Called “kalaga” in western countries. It is a form of needlework to create a variety of pictures and patterns so delicate and detailed that it requires skill, artistry and patience. It is a highly decorative embroidery that employs gold thread as its name indicates, but in fact silver and colored threads as well as other materials such as tinsel, sequins, semi-precious gems, colorful cut glass, seed pearls and beads go into the making. The greatest variety is found in Mandalay, where most tapestries are produced. You can also buy tapestries in Yangon at handicraft shops or Bogyoke market. 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. It’s 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. To the Burmese, lacquer ware call “Yung The” and most particularly in Bagan - where most of the lacquer ware is made. 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 colors. 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. There are many types of Burmese Lacquer ware articles are available, such as bowls, trays, plates, boxes, containers, vases, jewel boxes, dinnerware set and many other everyday items. The octagonal topped folding tables are another popular lacquer ware item. Bagan, site of the architectural wonders of the East, is the home of this craft.

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Prepared By DPS.
Developed By HTD (OCT 7 2011).