Hurdy- gurdy
Category
Musical instruments, devices and recordings
Date
1760 - 1790
Materials
wood, ivory and ebony
Measurements
335 mm (Width); 625 mm (Length)
Order this imageCollection
Fenton House, London
NT 1448927
Caption
As well as collecting early keyboard instruments, Major Benton Fletcher also had an interest in the hurdy- gurdy. This is a rather plain, but nonetheless interesting, example of what could be an extremely ornate instrument, played by the lower classes and aristocracy since its inception in the 11th century.
Summary
Hurdy-gurdy, possibly by Jean-Claude Pierre Coty (active 1760-90), France. With ivory knob to the handle, an ivory and ebony border, the neck terminating in a carved classical head. Shell motifs either side of head..
Provenance
Acquired after destruction of Old Devonshire House in 1941.