Violin

Johann Anton Gedler

ca. 1752–1800 · Wood, mother-of-pearl, silver · Musical Instruments

This unusual violin is one of a group of instruments made by Füssen violin builders that has a scalloped outline. The shape is somewhat reminiscenet of other stringed-instruments, such as viola da gambas and violas d'amore, that have festooned bodies. However, the effect with this instrument is like water rippling. It has been suggested such instruments were made for theatrical performances that required onstage instruments. Such unusual instruments may have been made for a particular visual effect.

Artist

Johann Anton Gedler

Date

ca. 1752–1800

Medium

Wood, mother-of-pearl, silver

Culture

German

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

Funds from various donors, 1953