Sarasvati vina

The Sarasvati vina is named for the Hindu goddess revered as the patron of all arts, particularly music. The close association of the vina with the goddess—who is also the embodiment of wisdom and learning—is reflected in the belief that to master this instrument is a form of esoteric knowledge and, thus, a path to the divine.

Historically, the term vina was applied to South Asian plucked-string instruments in general. Today the term is normally understood to refer to the type of long-necked southern Indian instrument represented here. The large bulbous end of the vina is the primary sound resonator. A smaller secondary resonator—lacking in this example—is often attached along the neck, and it serves primarily as a rest while the instrument is held across the body and played. As with many other vinas, this example features a neck whose end is carved in the form of a mythical lion's head.