Lyre Guitar 1835 - 1845

Joseph-Louis Germain's "Lyre Guitar" (1835-1845) is an exquisite example of 19th-century French craftsmanship. This instrument, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcases a unique design with a lyre-shaped headstock and a distinctly shaped body, which features two soundholes and intricate floral inlays. The guitar's dimensions, including a 36-inch length and a 6.5-cm soundhole diameter, offer valuable insight into its construction and sonic properties. This instrument, a blend of classical tradition and innovative design, stands as a testament to the artistry of its maker and the evolution of musical instruments.