One of the oldest musical instruments in China

The xun is a globular, vessel flute from China. It is one of the oldest musical instruments in China and has been in use for approximately seven thousand years. The xun was initially made of baked clay or bone, and later of clay or ceramic. This 19th century egg-shaped xun produces about one octave of notes when played. It’s still used today in Confucian rituals in Taiwan and by enthusiasts of traditional Chinese music.Photo courtesy: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston