Sarangi

(RCM0519)

Project Duration: 20 Hours

Dimensions: H: 240mm W: 610 mm D: 178 mm

Materials: Wood (Maple), Nickel-Chrome, Plastic, Lacquer, Steel

Object Description: Usually performed by men, women UK diaspora have learnt this historical instrument through sacred setting and teachers. Huge achievement. Sarangi tradition and production is dying out in Lahore, a few are keeping its presence in the region.

Condition:

Object is stable and sound. No strings present. Ivory portions are yellowed and have layers of residue on them. Object is required to be re-strung for display during exhibition.

Treatment Purpose: Instrument was treated for the purpose of display in the Hidden Treasures Temporary Exhibition for June 2023. 

Treatment Performed:

Wood surfaces were cleaned using white spirit to remove soiling. To complete the stringing of the instrument for display, a bridge was fashioned from a violin bridge and hand carved to better mimic reference existing Sarangi bridges. Replica bridge was coloured using acrylic paints to appear more unified. 

Instrument was strung for the purpose of temporary exhibition with reproduction tinted tan silk cord to mimic original strings. Brass strings were also strung on instrument. Tension was kept at a minimum to not produce any unnecessary strain or damage.