A reed musical instrument, similar to the European oboe. It consists of a brass mouthpiece formed by a flat disc on which two spheres are superimposed one above the other and a small tube is inserted into the mouth to play.
Today in China, it is used in theatres, opera, celebrations and ceremonies, especially funerals and weddings, in combination with the sheng, gong, drums and other instruments, causing a loud and very sharp sound. In the theater, it also announces the beginning of the various acts. Its first use in China was intended to encourage soldiers in battle.
The modern 'suona' was developed in the 15th-16th century, during the Ming dynasty, introduced to China from Central Asia.
In the Museum in 1901-1947..
