Zither (qin) inscribed with the name “Dragon’s Moan”

This long, rectangular instrument is a zither, or qin in Chinese. It is extremely rare because not many musical instruments from this period still survive today. The scalloped outline (traditionally named “strung pearls”) and relatively thick sound box suggest it was made during the Song dynasty (960–1279) or earlier. The instrument has seven silk strings of varying thickness. The strings are mounted on a hollow, lacquered wooden box. Thirteen inlaid jade inserts run along the outer edge to indicate pitch positions and help the performer with finger placement.

The underside is incised in words that translate to “Dragon’s Moan,” the name given to this instrument. Further inscriptions describe the instrument’s music as being emanated from heaven, its music possessing an almost magical, life-giving power.

Qin are one of the most ancient Chinese musical instruments, probably in use as early as the Shang dynasty (c. 1600–1050 B.C.E.). When playing, the performer plucks the strings with the right hand and alters the pitch with the left. The design of a qin, such as its seven-string form, was standardized during the Han dynasty (206 BCE–220 C.E.). Qin owners and masters often incised the backboard of a treasured instrument with poetic writings, praising its venerable history and spiritual virtues. Unlike Western instruments that are often played in orchestras at large gatherings, qin are played mainly for personal enjoyment or for a small group of friends, often in private gardens.

Qin have for centuries been valued as a symbol of high culture by the Chinese elite class. Every scholar-gentleman is expected to be skilled in four art forms: qin (music), qi (chess), shu (calligraphy) and hua (painting). Qin playing is regarded as a spiritual and intellectual activity. It can help with self-cultivation and learning enhancement. In Chinese landscape paintings, sages and scholars are often seen playing qin while enjoying beautiful scenery.