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Hurdy Gurdy Instrument

Offered by: Allan Katz Americana

Description
This rare early 19th-century folk instrument was originally discovered in a Connecticut farm house 70 years ago where it had been for many generations. Constructed of soft maple with ivory inlay and brass upholstery tacks. Unknown origin. Circa 1820.

As a musical instrument, the Hurdy Gurdy resembles pieces that were made in France and England. Those examples were shop made and considerably more refined in their construction. The folk artisan who made this instrument used brass tacks and simple, almost crude inlays for decorative embellishments instead of sophisticated ebony and ivory inlays. The carved head is a true folk art expression.

More Information

Origin:	United States
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Wood, Brass, Ebony, Ivory
Condition:	Excellent.
Creation Date:	Circa 1820
Styles / Movements:	Folk Art, Americana
Incollect Reference #:	188713

Dimensions

W.	11 in;	H.	28 in;	D.	7.75 in;
W.	27.94 cm;	H.	71.12 cm;	D.	19.69 cm;

Message from Seller:

A passionate collector and a successful and respected dealer in early American advertising since 1973, Allan expanded this passion to include collecting period American folk art and Americana. He subsequently became a dealer in this material in 1985. Allan has earned a reputation, in both the dealer and collector communities, as being an authority in this subject matter, for having extensive knowledge, a keen eye for the material and a love for this exciting American art form.

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