Two African Lirae
The two African lutes are from Ethiopia, Africa. They are constructed of symmetrical frames of pumpkins and wood and the body of the instruments are covered in a snakeskin that is stretched taut over the surface. Both instruments feature strings made of tendons with leather covered yokes.
The restoration process included treatments to remove pests, re-hydration of the wood, photographic documentation, and scientific analysis. The restoration took place in the Paper and Fiber Laboratory.
