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Autoharp

Oscar Schmidt American
ca. 1960
Not on view
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.
This autoharp was used by John Sebastian on many songs by the Lovin’ Spoonful, including the 1965 hits “Do You Believe in Magic” and “You Didn’t Have to Be So Nice.” The instrument is strung chromatically. The player strums desired chords by pressing bars that mute the other strings.

Technical Description:
Maple body, metal bridge and tuning pegs; 15 chord bars, pickup system with volume control

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Autoharp
  • Artist: Oscar Schmidt
  • Artist: John Sebastian
  • Date: ca. 1960
  • Geography: United States
  • Medium: Maple, metal, plastic
  • Dimensions: Length: 23 3/4 in. (60.3 cm)
    Width: 12 in. (30.5 cm)
    Depth: ~1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm)
    Weight: 5 lbs.
  • Classification: Chordophone-Zither-plucked
  • Credit Line: Collection of John Sebastian
  • Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments