Bone Flute

The bone flute is the oldest known instrument found within the realm of the current Idran empire. It is an artifact that is housed within the Natural History Museum of Oja.

History

The bone flute was discovered during an archaeological dig 20 miles east of Piagre that was sponsored by the University of Oja in 1984. This dig uncovered a cave with some paintings, multiple pots, and the bone flute. Based on the type of pots found in the cave, it is estimated that the flute is 54,000 years old.

Significance

The bone flute provides archaeological evidence that music has been a part of the human experience for millennia. Although there is no way to know when the non-aural properties of music developed, it's possible to speculate that they have been a part of our society for far longer than was imagined prior to the discovery of this artifact. Regardless, music has been and will remain a crucial component of human culture.
The bone flute has captured the imagination of Idrans since its discovery, which was heralded in all the major media outlets. Many visitors to the museum report that they are held in awe on seeing something that so resonates with their lives but is so clearly ancient. It has even inspired a piece by Ifna Composer entitled "Serenade for Bone Flute". The conservationists at the museum intend to preserve the bone flute so that it can continue to inspire for many years to come.

Item type

Musical Instrument

Current Location

Oja

Rarity

Unique

Dimensions

0.5 inch by 7.5 inches

Raw materials & Components

Bone of a bird

Composition

This small pipe flute has a hole for the mouth, a central bore, and five holes that can be covered by the fingers. The end of the piece is broken, so it is unknown whether there were more holes in the original piece.