Building the Mongolian Morin Khuur

The most prominent musical instrument in Mongolia is also the most highly acclaimed and greatly beloved symbol of Mongolian culture. No other instrument holds the place and prominence in Mongolian society as the Morin Khuur which is known as the horse-head fiddle outside of Mongolia. The crafting of the Morin Khuur as depicted in the following photos takes place in stages over several weeks and involves the skills of different specialists.



Unfinished carved Morin Khuur heads.


Finished Morin Khuur head and neck.




Carving the Morin Khuur head.




Crafting the neck of the Morin Khuur.



Preparing the Morin Khuur sound box.