English Guitar, John and Gerard Vogler (active 1777-1785), London, c. 1780, spruce, maple, ebony, metal, ivory, mother-of-pearl, tortoise shell c. 1780

Crafted around 1780 in London by John and Gerard Vogler, this English Guitar is an amalgamation of spruce, maple, ebony, and more. The rosette inlaid with mother-of-pearl around the sound hole draws our eye. These intricate patterns are a motif that has appeared throughout history from the concentric mandalas of Buddhism to the rose windows of Gothic cathedrals, acting as a microcosmic representation of the universe. The rosette, in particular, can be compared to similar ornamentation found in Renaissance lute designs. The way the rosette is used across cultures, suggests a deeper psychological impulse. The geometric perfection appeals to our innate desire to find order and harmony, reflecting a symbolic quest for cosmic balance. The emotional resonance of musical instruments and the recurring use of the rosette underscores music’s historical role as a medium for exploring human emotion. So, as you admire the craftsmanship of this guitar, remember that the symbols it carries connect it to a much broader narrative—a continuous and cyclical exploration of human creativity.