Oboe in C 1700 - 1735

This is an oboe in C made by Jacob Denner, a German instrument maker, probably in the early 18th century. Looking at this instrument, it's easy to forget the social life of music in the courts and cities of Europe. The oboe, with its piercing yet sweet sound, was a key part of courtly orchestras. Music, like dress and manners, played a key role in displays of status. The patronage system meant that instrument makers like Denner were reliant on wealthy individuals, who had the resources to fund skilled craftsmen and musicians. The study of instruments like this one involves a lot of archival research, looking at account books, inventories, and other documents that can tell us more about the world in which it was made and used. By understanding these things, we can better understand the social conditions that shape artistic production.