The multinational gusle
- Collection: The collection of gifts – Ethnology
- Country: Yugoslavia
- Type of item: Musical instrument
- Material: Wood
- Is it exposed? Yes
- Inventory number: 53 M
This specific gusle hold one important characteristic that can be considered general for the whole body of gifts. Although the imagination and skillfulness of the workmanship that produced it fascinate us, the excellence is reflected primarily in the multifunctionality and hitherto unseen combination of “all in one”. In fact, this unique gusle have on them 11 more items: a walking stick, three flutes, a whistle, a cigarette case, a cigarette holder, a comb, a spoon, a fork and a knife. All are attached to the gusle-stick with small hinge mechanisms. This makes this item original and authentic, justifying the use of the term “hybrid”, which adequately describes the whole array of presents that Tito received. The desire to present the best of what one has to offer is expressed in contributing something unique that often surpasses expected forms. The overemphasis results from the urge of leaving a strong and unambiguous impression of devotion on the addressee of presents, pointing to the subtle issue of relationship between the people and the ruler, in the context of gifts exchange.
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Collection: The collection of gifts – Ethnology (4)
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Time: unknown (3)
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Country: Yugoslavia (33)
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Type of item: Musical instrument (1)
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Material: Wood (12)