Gagaku Instrument: Hichiriki, Named “Katyomaru” |
Flute Late Heian period, 12th centuly Gift of Ii Family |
The ryuteki is a side-blown bamboo flute originating in China. This patina-covered example is a very early piece dating from the Heian period. The storage case dates from the late Edo period (19th century). Possibly in allusion to the mei signature, it is decorated with a design of cherry blossoms and long-tail chicken, with matching cherry blossom motif hardware.