Harp Guitar

Edward Light Harp-Lute

London, England
Western Europe

ca.1810

Rare Edward Light harp-lute made in England c.1810. Light apparently invented the harp-lute ("dital harp") around 1798 for vocal accompaniment. The gilded inscription reads: "580, Light, Foley Place, London." The belly, neck, and back of the instrument is Black Japanned, with gilt decoration, with an inserted rose in the French style. There are seven strings on the finger-board, and five drone strings (four can be raised a semi-tone by brass ditals, one of these being turned by the left thumb by connecting levers).

Owner:
Catalog#: HWMC

© Hartenberger World Music Collection