Hurdy-Gurdy 1840 - 1899

Gilbert Nigout's "Hurdy-Gurdy" (1840-1899), housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a meticulously crafted, hand-painted, and ornamented musical instrument. Its wooden body features a checkered pattern, ornate floral motifs, and inlays, highlighting the intricate craftsmanship of the period. The instrument's unique design includes a crank, a set of strings, and a keyboard, showcasing the mechanical elements crucial to its sound production. The hurdy-gurdy, a traditional stringed instrument, has long fascinated musicians and art enthusiasts alike for its distinctive sound and historical significance.