Musical Instruments, Historic, Rare and Unique

This work presents an illustrated catalogue of rare and historic musical instruments, combining descriptive notes, measurements, provenance and technical details with forty-eight colour plates. It surveys European and non-European examples — harps, lutes, viols, virginals, keyboards and organs, bowed and plucked strings, wind and brass instruments, and a range of Asian and African instruments — describing construction, tuning, playing practice, ornamentation and ceremonial use. Individual plates and entries give dates, maker attributions, dimensions and observations on preservation and performance. Occasional comparative and historical remarks situate objects within local traditions and liturgical or civic functions, while practical considerations explain why many antiques are shown unstrung.