Calabash Recorder

A recorder with a gourd, or calabash, resonator with three rectangular holes, and one in the base. The instrument consists of a cane stem with six holes and a mouth piece. Attached to the calabash are seven chains with coins attached to the ends, two of which are 5 franc coins, dated to 1956. The Presence of francs suggest it may be a Fula instrument with links to francophone Guinea. This is supported by a photograph taken by Massie-Taylor that shows some Fula musicians playing an instrument of this type.

Further Information

• Type: Musical instruments
• Object: Calabash Recorder
• Materials: Vegetable, organic fibre, Metal, Wood
• Culture Group: Fula
• Dimensions: 745mm [L] x 80mm
• Production Date: Pre 1960
• Associated Places: Unknown
• Associated People: Guy Massie-Taylor (Collector)
• Museum: Glasgow Museums
• Accession Number: GLAMG:A.1985.13.eu

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