Zither.
1
Photo by Dominic Ibbotson © The University of Edinburgh
Alternative TitleGuitar zither. |
InstrumentZither |
Instrument FamilyStrings |
MakerMenzenhauer |
Date MadeLate 19th or early 20th century |
DescriptionTechnical description: Back of black-stained lime(?). Sides and soundboard of painted wood. Bottom end is at a 90º angle to the spine. Side opposite the spine is similar to a guitar, having a lower bout and waist, then a sharp point as the upper bout. Rounded top. The strings attach at the bottom. No cover over the bottom and bridge. The nut is in two sections, the base section is parallel to the bridge and carries all of the chords and the lowest single strings; the treble section nut is at an angle to the bridge therefore reducing the string length. 5 chords in the bass section A major, D major, F major, G major, and C major. Single strings from C₄ - C₆, without E♭₄, B♭₄ , E♭₅, and B♭₅. Sound-hole diameter 72. The chord section tuning-pins are in groups of 4 (arranged 3+1), the bass bridge single strings in groups of 2, and the treble bridge strings individual. Three buttons on the back. Overall size: 471. Body length: 471. Body width: 349 (lower bout maximum), 331 (at bottom), 338, (waist above lower bout), 349 (upper point). Body depth: 39. String length: chords and single notes from C₄ - E₄, 406; notes F₄ - C₆ 404 - 170. Signature marks: Painted on the soundboard under the chord section near the nut "MENZENHAUER'S / PATENTED BREVET / Gesetzlich geschützt / GUITAR ZITHER". Note names and numbers painted under the strings near the bottom. Decorative features: Black painted. Decorative leaves around the edge of the soundboard and the sound hole. Maker's name and the chord names painted, now worn and difficult to read. Repair History: One missing button on back, lowest single string missing, bridge cover missing. |
NotesD.P. Martin, 1996-1997. |
Measurements471. |
Provenanceon loan to the Collection. |
CollectionMIMEd |
Accession Number0859 |