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Harp-lute

Plucked stringed instrument with a vaulted-back soundbox and a theorbo-styled pegbox. Back of soundbox comprised of seven ribs of maple(?), with narrow oval soundhole at center. Spruce top with carved rose over soundhole. Bridge, neck, fretboard, pegboxes and pegs of ebonized wood (black-stained). Only two pegs have ivory buttons and may be original. Two nuts and twelve frets of ivory. Seven main strings and four extra, unfretted bass strings (all modern - metal-wound, nylon, one gut). Top pegbox terminated with square-shaped finial. Ivory button on bottom of body. This hybrid instrument was one of Edward Light's early 19th century developments, combining elements of the then highly popular harp and English guitar (guittar), and intended as a new "improved" parlour instrument. This instrument is part of the Albert C. Spencer collection.

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  • Decorative elements:Gold-color painted carved rose with foliate motifs, surrounded by a golden laurel wreath with ribbons. Painted flower on finial.
  • Inscriptions:Painted inscription on rose decoration scrolls: BARRY / MAKER / LIGHT / INVENTOR
  • Hornbostel-Sachs category:321.322-5 Necked box lutes or necked guitars sounded by the bare fingers
  • Repository:Royal Pavilion and Museums Brighton
  • Measurements:Height: 900mm; Width: 345mm; Depth: 165mm