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A musical instrument used in ancient as well as more modern times.
''Sistrum'' is mentioned only once in the Bible. It is a Hebrew word that is derived from a root word meaning ''to quiver, to be shaken.'' This characteristic method of playing makes it similar to a ''Musical Rattle.'' The sistrum consists of a metal frame attached to a handle. The frame loosely holds a small number of metal crossbars that produces a sharp ringing sound when rattled. Some sistrums were equipped with metal disks that jingled when the instrument was shaken.
The sistrum displayed here is of a typed used in the Byzantine Empire.
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