( JPEG format )Several strips of board are assembled to form the body. The player sits cross-legged (although in some performances he or she may sit on a chair, or stand) and places the instrument near the top of the thigh. The neck, at a diagonal to the torso, is gripped with the resonator. In the south Shinkiang region it is played with a plectrum, and in the north with a metal pick worn on the index finger of the right hand. Primarily used for accompaniment of folk songs and dances.