Trying to figure out what kind of instrument this

[Deleted]

WE have an instrument that has 10 strings but double strung like a twelve string but it is not a guitar and it is approximately 33 and a half inches long, it is hollow bodied, in mint condition and has a gold plate on the back with a serial number listed that says E115. It looks similar to an instrument that may possibly have been used to play old English, possibly minstrel music. It is definitely not a guitar and we took the instrument to a big music store in Illinois called Musiclab and they had no idea what it was. Unfortunately I am unable to provide a picture to you at this time, but I can tell you it is in excellent condition. Do you have any ideas as what this may be?? I know it cant be easy without a picture, but your help is appreciated more than you could ever know!!! Thank you so much! Billy and Christie Wright, [e-mail] or feel free to call us at 219-933-7539

[LouisianaGrey]

Steel or gut strings? Slotted headstock or tuning pegs? How wide and deep is the body? I would have thought the most likely thing would be some kind of South or Central American instrument - maybe a cuatro. Take a look at the Atlas of Plucked Instruments and see if you can see anything similar - www.atlasofpluckedinstruments.com/

[wolvoboy]

what shape is it, could be a cittern
wolvoboy

[Deleted]

louisianagrey said:

Steel or gut strings? Slotted headstock or tuning pegs? How wide and deep is the body? I would have thought the most likely thing would be some kind of South or Central American instrument - maybe a cuatro. Take a look at the Atlas of Plucked Instruments and see if you can see anything similar - www.atlasofpluckedinstruments.com/

Steel strings, slotted headstock, the body is about 3 to 3 and 1/4 in depth, rounded at bottom so at widest its approx 11 and 1/2 and at bottom, and top portion widest is about 8 inches and kind of shaped like a violin, so there is a smallest width portion in middle of body that is about 6 and 1/4 inches. Thanx for your help!

[Gerry C]

Could be a laud, which I believe is of Spanish origin. See the ATLAS www.atlasofpluckedinstruments.com/europe.htm#spain (you will need to scroll down a little.)

Cheerily

Gerry C