Viola (probably converted from a 'lira da braccio')

This viola has probably been adapted from a lira da braccio. The single corners, marking the beginning of the lower bouts, are commonly found on sixteenth-century lire da braccio, but the f-holes, pegbox, scroll, and maple ribs with overhanging back and front, both arching outwards, are also characteristic of the violin family. It has four strings, tuned like the modern viola. The short neck, fingerboard, and tailpiece are not original. The pegbox and scroll, grafted onto the neck, are of authentic design but may not be original. The instrument formerly belonged to the Este family in Modena.