Vintage Japanese Shakuhachi Wooden Flute in Playable Condition 19"

Antique Japanese Wooden Shakuhachi Bamboo Flute for Zen Practice 19"L

Japan, late Edo to early Meiji period. A traditional end-blown shakuhachi flute carved from solid hardwood, finished with a warm natural patina developed through long handling and age. The instrument is composed of two joined sections, with carefully shaped finger holes and a beveled blowing edge typical of classical honkyoku-style shakuhachi construction.

Length: 19"L

Shakuhachi flutes occupy a unique place in Japanese cultural history, particularly within Zen Buddhist practice, where they were used as tools for meditation through breath rather than for musical performance alone. 

By the late Edo period, shakuhachi making had evolved into a refined craft, balancing acoustic performance with restrained aesthetics. Wooden examples such as this, while less common than bamboo, were favored for durability and stable tone, particularly for indoor or instructional use.

Condition: Overall very good antique condition with age-appropriate wear, surface handling marks, and minor darkening consistent with use. No cracks observed; joint fits a bit loose given some shrinkage of the cork.

A compelling example for collectors of Japanese musical instruments, Zen art, or Edo-period objects, offering both cultural depth and visual elegance.