arched belly

The term "arched belly" in the context of musical instruments primarily refers to the construction of the violin family. The belly, or soundboard, of instruments like the violin, viola, cello, and double bass, features an arched shape, both transversely and longitudinally. This arching, typically made of spruce or pine, is crucial for tone production and amplification.1

The arched harp is another instrument characterized by its arched neck that curves from the body. This form is considered the most ancient type of harp, with depictions dating back to 3000 BC in Sumer and Egypt. The arched harp diffused through Africa and Asia, with surviving examples like the Ugandan ennanga and the Burmese saung gauk.2