Violin

Attributed to Johann Anton Gedler German

ca. 1752–1800

Not on view

This unusual violin is one of a group of instruments made by Füssen violin builders that has a scalloped outline. The shape is somewhat reminiscenet of other stringed-instruments, such as viola da gambas and violas d'amore, that have festooned bodies. However, the effect with this instrument is like water rippling. It has been suggested such instruments were made for theatrical performances that required onstage instruments. Such unusual instruments may have been made for a particular visual effect.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Title: Violin
Maker: Attributed to Johann Anton Gedler (German, Würzburg 1725–1790 Füssen)
Date: ca. 1752–1800
Geography: Fussen, Bavaria, Germany
Culture: German
Medium: Wood, mother-of-pearl, silver
Classification: Chordophone-Lute-bowed-unfretted
Credit Line: Funds from various donors, 1953
Object Number: 53.222a
Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments

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