Komuz

What is it

The body and neck of the komuz are carved from a single piece of apricot or walnut wood — there is no gluing. Strings used to be made from sheep intestines. There are no frets on the neck: the pitch is taken by ear, and two komuzes never sound the same.

Why it is in this database

Komuz is the most recognizable silhouette of Kyrgyz culture after the yurt, and the most frequent request for souvenir and corporate lines. It also reminds us that ornament here has never been a separate art: the same master carved the komuz, the saddle, and the door frame, and they share common motifs.