HIGHLAND MAYA HARP (79.11.1)
Chiapas
Cordophone

The harp is the oldest known string instrument.  Bow harps, made from warrior’s bows, are thought to be the earliest harps.  This harp, a frame harp, is a more recent invention.  Although this is a Mayan harp, its shape and structure would have come from European influence in the Americas. 

Click on image to see a close-up.