Description

“Sweet Potato” was the universal nickname for the ocharina, a musical instrument which has it’s origins centuries ago, popularized in the United States in the 1850s. A simple flute made of clay, they were played by slaves and citizens alike in the antebellum and wartime period. After the war they became a popular addition to folk music ensembles. This one is 6″ long finished in black with gold leaf painted design. The maker mark is stamped in the clay with an early style Federal eagle with the letters “G.B.” It also has three numbers stamped in it, likely having to do size and key. Instructions for playing are available on the internet.