1.8 nobe jinashi
30mm O.D. / 17.5mm I.D.
Length: 547mm
Weight: 260 gms
Key: D 440hz
Gold brocade flute bag included (background of photos)
Price: 95,000 yen
Maker: unknown
Details: This is a stunning example of playable art. In fact, this nobekan's sonic nature is in no way overwhelmed by it's visual beauty.
Though I have come across many shakuhachi that have been adorned with artwork, the carving on this instrument is
second to none.
Just above the root end is a carving of a chrysanthimum with intricate detail flanked by two stalks of bamboo.
Encompassing holes three and four is a resting phoenix on a bed of bamboo and ginko leaves.
Just below the utaguchi is a sakura motif.
The utaguchi itself has been reconstructed in one of the most expert ways I have ever seen which
suggests that the instrument was in disrepair, but of such quality that it warranted this
degree or reconstruction. Re-laquering of the upper part of the bore happened at this time.
The instrument's tuning is typical to pre WWI instruments, though the general wear and patina suggest that
this instrument is more than 100 years old.
The tone of the instrument is sweet and focused and will play equally well with fluid subtlty and strength well
into the 3rd octave.
There is a surface crack running for 4 cm from the utaguchi face downward and another of about
the same length running from below the 6th node downward. Both are settled and don't compromise the bore at all.
The utaguchi face is positioned slightly off-center but doesn't interfere with playability.
A very unique instrument.
Have a listen (be patient while the file downloads)
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