Keyed Cittern (English Guitar) 18th century

This 18th-century “Keyed Cittern (English Guitar)” by Christian Claus (1783–1793) is a beautiful example of a historical musical instrument. The cittern, a type of lute with a pear-shaped body, was popular in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. This particular instrument features a long neck, a fretted fingerboard, and a sound hole with an intricate rosette design. The cittern’s construction, including its movable bridge, allows for adjustment of the string tension and tuning, making it a versatile instrument for playing a variety of music. This captivating instrument, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection, showcases the craftsmanship and artistry of 18th-century musical instrument making.