Name: Mesenko.
Type: Bowed Monohord > Chordophones.
Region: Ethiopia > Africa.
Dimensions: Length 35 cm.
Acquisition Date: Circa year 2005.
Acquisition Source: Value Village Thrift Store, Vancouver Canada.
Description:
The mesenko is a small single stringed bowed monochord. This musical
instrument has a small square body that is wrapped over a frame and
stitched over with animal hide. A single string of horse hair goes
through a small hole in a triangle shaped adjustable bridge. Related
instruments are found in Eritrea and other neighbouring areas, include
a bowed rebab found in Morocco. The bow is also made from wood and
horse hair.