End-blown Flute (Hitoyogiri), late 1800s. Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912). Bamboo, lacquer, gilt; overall: 33.5 x 2.6 cm (13 3/16 x 1 in.). Less known than the shakuhachi, its later descendent, the hitoyogiri, first appeared in the 8th century and was used by Buddhist priests and wandering beggar monks and to accompany popular songs. It declined in the 18th century and was replaced by the larger end-blown flute, the shakuhachi. Both instruments have four finger holes and a thumb hole, are held vertically, and have a blowing edge formed by an outward cut at the rim. The hitoyogiri ceased to be used by the 19th century, replaced by the larger shakuhachi.