Vielle à Roue 1760 - 1780

This "Vielle à Roue" (Hurdy-Gurdy), crafted by French luthier François le Jeune between 1760 and 1780, is a beautiful example of the intricate craftsmanship of this unique instrument. The hurdy-gurdy, a stringed instrument played by turning a wheel that rubs against the strings, is known for its unique sound and its history dating back to medieval times. Le Jeune’s hurdy-gurdy features a sculpted figure of a woman on the headstock and a decorative inlaid design. The instrument, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a reminder of the artistry involved in building traditional musical instruments.