( JPEG format )An oboe used by night-time noodle vendors. The name derives from the Portuguese word charamela. The original form of the instrument is supposedly the Chinese suona, which was brought to Japan sometime after the 16th century. It is used in the kabuki theater ensemble, and in nagauta to suggest a Chinese setting or atmosphere. For the reed, wheat straw is usually used, but the instrument in the collection has a reed made form a plastic drinking straw.