Pardessus de Viole 1745 - 1755

This Pardessus de Viole was created by Nicholas Chappuy in France in the 18th century. During this time, music and the arts were increasingly becoming integrated into social life, reflecting and shaping cultural identities, particularly among the elite. The Pardessus de Viole, smaller than a cello, was often associated with women musicians. Its design allowed aristocratic women to play without compromising their posture or appearance, reflecting the gendered expectations of the era. This instrument embodies the intersection of gender, class, and artistic expression in 18th-century France, highlighting how social norms influenced the creation and use of musical instruments. It offered women a space in the musical world, albeit one that was carefully circumscribed by social expectations. This instrument remains a poignant reminder of both the constraints and the opportunities afforded to women in the arts during that era.