FINE DAYAK FLUTE

Mid 19th century. 23" total length. Cylindrical with the segment divisions finished to slightly concave blackened bands. Angled oval embouchure with spatulate projection at the end. The entire body decorated in fine incised scrolling matrix, flowing foliage and geometric panels with bleached members on darkened field. Workmanship of the finest order. A few shrink cracks as expected. The back side with contrasting color. The front faded from display in the sun, likely in Indonesia. A fine historic example of a type still made. The quality of workmanship on this example, however, is long lost.