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A Jewish orchestra, in Tlemcen, invariably composed of 5 instruments
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A Jewish orchestra, in Tlemcen, invariably composed of 5 instruments
LSE4330239 A Jewish orchestra, in Tlemcen, invariably composed of 5 instruments: the rbab mounts on 2 strings; the kouistra, a kind of lute; the kamendja, or violin; the centihr, a kind of flat trapeze case and the derboucha, a kind of tambourine in earth; all the musicians play sitting on the floor, engraving after a drawing by D. Maillard, illustrating the travel a Tlemcen (Algerie), by E. de Lorral, in 1875, published in " Le tour du monde" 1875, edited by Edouard Charton, Hachette edition, Paris. Selva Collection. by French School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: A Jewish orchestra, in Tlemcen, invariably composed of 5 instruments: the rbab mounts on 2 strings; the kouistra, a kind of lute; the kamendja, or violin; the centihr, a kind of flat trapeze case and the derboucha, a kind of tambourine in earth; all the musicians play sitting on the floor, engraving after a drawing by D. Maillard, illustrating the travel a Tlemcen (Algerie), by E. de Lorral, in 1875, published in " Le tour du monde" 1875, edited by Edouard Charton, Hachette edition, Paris. Selva Collection.); Photo eLeonard de Selva; French, out of copyright
Media ID 22300908
© Leonard de Selva / Bridgeman Images
Algeria Algeria Algerian Algerian Algerians Algerie Jews Maghreb Maghrebi Maghrebian Maghrebin Maghrebine Orchestra Arab Civilization Jewish Religion Parents Sudan
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a Jewish orchestra in Tlemcen during the 19th century. The image showcases five musicians, each playing a different instrument, sitting on the floor as they create beautiful melodies together. The rbab, with its two strings, takes center stage in this ensemble. Its haunting sound resonates through the room, setting the tone for the other instruments to follow. The kouistra, a lute-like instrument, adds depth and richness to the composition. Next is the kamendja or violin, played with precision and grace by one of the musicians. Its sweet and melancholic notes blend seamlessly with those of its counterparts. The centihr stands out among them all—a flat trapeze case that emits unique tones when skillfully strummed by another member of this talented group. Lastly, we have the derboucha—an earthy tambourine that provides rhythm and energy to their performance. As it is struck gently against their palms or tapped lightly on their knees, it adds an infectious beat that makes it impossible not to tap your foot along. Engraved after a drawing by D. Maillard from E. de Lorral's travel account in 1875 published in "Le tour du monde" this historic photograph offers us a glimpse into both cultural heritage and musical tradition at that time. Through this image captured over a century ago by Leonard de Selva's lens, we are transported back in time to witness these skilled musicians pouring their hearts into creating harmonies that transcend language barriers—a testament to music's ability to unite people across cultures and generations.
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