The versatile and beautiful gourd guiro or huiro is actually three-in-one.It can be used as a percussion instrument when rubbing the carved grooves on the side of the gourd, producing a washboard-like sound. Turn the Huiro upside down for a rain-like sound; or it can be shaken to produce a maraca (rattle) like sound.Handmade by Peruvian artisans from the Sierra region, the guiro is crafted from mate gourds engraved by two different size chisels and gouges. This guiro has various designs of intricately carved designs in traditional settings and measures approximately 16 inches long. Each guiro or huiro is unique as the individual piece of fruit it was handcrafted from. The gourds used to make these unique instruments were originally used as ornate water vessels for ceremonial offerings to the Incas.When you purchase these products, you are providing means of support for artisans in the Sierra of Peru region, one of the most economically disadvantaged regions of South America. The sales of contribute to the development of the village and can generate new jobs. It also extends their audiences abroad to customer markets they would otherwise not have access to.The handcrafted nature of this product will produce minor differences in color and sizing. Subtle shade variations will occur from piece to piece, adding to its unique qualities. Measurements are approximate.Imported