Persian Chang
In Persian, “chang” designates a harp that was found in Persia from as early as the third millennium BC. It remained popular in Iran all the way up till the 17th century, when it was superceded in popularity in the region by the zithers santur and qanun as well as various lutes, which are more portable and sturdier than harps.
The chang on display here is a harp made by a contemporary Iranian instrument-maker based on western harp specifications, but retaining a Persian flavour in its decorative patterns. This particular harp is made of mahogany, walnut, hazel and natural maple.
