This is a beautiful, traditional kora, a unique 21-string harp-lute musical instrument originating from West Africa, primarily the Mandinka culture in countries like Senegal, Mali, and Gambia. It serves as both a functional instrument and a striking piece of tribal art and cultural heritage. Key Features: Construction: The sound box is made from a large, dried calabash gourd, covered with a stretched cowhide soundboard. Design: The instrument features traditional wooden handles and a long hardwood neck. It is richly decorated with cowrie shells and detailed face carvings on the headstock and handles, which adds significant visual appeal and cultural authenticity. Strings: Equipped with nylon strings, typically used in modern Koras, the instrument produces a sound reminiscent of a harp when plucked in the traditional polyrhythmic style.