Jews Mouth Harp Wagon Train

.5" H x 4.375" L x 1.625" W

Hand Crafted from Wood and Steel and Attached with a Leather Strap

Excellent Condition

The Jew's harp (also spelled jews harp, jaw harp, or mouth harp) is a small, ancient musical instrument played by plucking a flexible metal tongue (reed) while holding the frame against the teeth or lips. The player's mouth acts as a resonator, changing the pitch by altering the shape of the oral cavity. Not Jewish in origin. The name "Jew's harp" is likely a corruption of "jaw's harp" (referring to the jaw/teeth) or possibly "juice harp" (from the sound produced). It has no historical connection to Jewish culture. Used by Indigenous groups and in Appalachian folk traditions.

Provenance:  From the Len and Toni Wood Private Collection, Laguna Beach, California