Early Medieval Lyre

Taken directly from the famed 6th-century lyre found in Trossingen, Germany in 2002, this lyre — though quiet — possess a sweet tonal clarity. Alternate tunings allow the player to perform a surprising range of music. The body is carved from a single block of Maple; it can be made in three pieces (left/right ribs and arms, separate back) for a lower price. The top can be either Maple or Spruce and is carved in a very gentle arch.

The instrument can be left undecorated, but really shines with kolrosing (traditional Scandinavian etching). Unlike some reproductions using laser etching or CNC carving to recreate the intricate decorations of the original Trossingen Lyre, I do my kolrosing the traditional way, by hand.

Finally, the instrument is protected with a traditional oil and beeswax finish.

Specifications:

Length: 34” (863 mm)
Courses: 7
Body: Maple (block-carved)
Top: Maple or Sitka Spruce
Bridge: Walnut
Tuning pegs: Boxwood or Maple

Price:
no decoration - $600 for block carved body, $450 for three-piece body
partial kolrosing (front of arms only) - $800
full kolrosing (front and back) - $1500