Harp Lyre 19th century

This harp lyre, made by Pfeiffer & Brimmeyr, consists primarily of wood, with metal tuning pegs and strings. The material construction influences the instrument's sound, of course, but also its form. The resonant soundboard, crafted from carefully selected wood, vibrates with each plucked string, filling the air with music. The pillar and neck, also wooden, provide structural support, while the metal tuning pegs ensure precise pitch. Consider the labor involved in its making. From the harvesting and curing of the wood to the shaping, assembly, and finishing, each step requires the touch of skilled hands. The instrument represents a tradition of craftsmanship passed down through generations. Objects like this were once considered decorative art – somehow ‘less than’ fine art. But they are powerful cultural documents, expressive of both their makers and the eras in which they lived.