I’m digging through my hard drives and finding unfinished 3D modeling projects. First up for your edification is my version of a West African instrument called a Kora.
The kora is a stringed instrument used extensively in West Africa.[2] A kora typically has 21 strings, which are played by plucking with the fingers. It has features of the lute and harp.
The kora is built from a gourd, cut in half and covered with cow skin to make a resonator with a long hardwood neck. The skin is supported by two handles that run underneath it. It has 21 strings, each of which plays a different note. These strings are supported by a notched, double free-standing bridge. The kora doesn’t fit into any one category of musical instrument, but rather several, and must be classified as a “double-bridge-harp-lute.” The strings run in two divided ranks, characteristic of a double harp. They do not end in a soundboard but are instead held in notches on a bridge, classifying it as a bridge harp. The strings originate from a string arm or neck and cross a bridge directly supported by a resonating chamber, also making it a lute.—Wikipedia
I don’t do a lot of modeling. This one goes back to 2019. It’s not totally polished but it actually turned out pretty well. Even still, I’m happy to call it done. The only thing left is to put it into the hands of a talented digital musician (might have to wake him up first though.)
Why a Kora?
My parents brought an authentic Kora home from a trip to the continent in the early ’70s. I’ve admired it my whole life. Never really tried to play it, though. I just find the instrument intriguing, and in the hands of a master its sound is mesmerizing. It’s still in their house but definitely showing its age, so I’ll call this a restoration.
Peace