Cornemuse 1633 - 1667

This is a bagpipe, or ‘cornemuse’, made of ivory with a silk bag, by P. Gaillard. Although its date remains unknown, such instruments were popular in France, especially during the 18th Century. Bagpipes are often associated with folk music, but instruments as elaborate as this were also taken up by the aristocracy. It was even played at the court of Louis XIV. The instrument could be seen as a means of cultural exchange between social classes, or of the upper classes appropriating folk traditions. Understanding the social life of objects such as this requires in-depth research. We can consult archives and study the patronage of the arts, the networks of musicians, and musical instrument makers. The history of musical instruments can tell us about the social and cultural life of the elites as well as common people.