Aaron J. Rabushka wrote:

>What is a guqin?

It's an instrument approximately 1.5 m in length, with 7 strings
(generally).  Range is on the deep side.  Placed horizontally, played
by stopping at different points of the instrument.  Originates from 2000++
BC, originally a scholars' instrument, together with the xiao and the se.
Ancient instruments have been found dating from that time, but no one has
been able to replicate the thick varnish that gives them their amazing
timbre.

Derek