Hi there,
I'm currently repairing my old German Lute (6x1, 62cm), previously
decorative only. Some ribs have come apart. I managed one connection
already.
I noticed that it has very thin ribs (about 1-1.5mm), however the
soundboard is quite thick judging at the rose (about 4-5mm).
There is one leftover string attached on the 4th course, it seems
contemporary and is wound metal.
The lute has a one piece carved pegbox with ornamented back plate and
flowerhead, and mechanical pegs. The fingerboard has metal frets with
arches in between. The strings are attached with wooden pins into holes
in the bridge.
It seems about 100 years old. No maker's plate is visible inside the bowl.
After having it in ok condition I plan to string it -- what would you
suggest? Metal or nylon (in the latter case I'll use my fishing line)?
Is there a way to tell if it was metal or gut strung?
Personally I would prefer metal for more cittern-like sound, unless
anyone advises strongly against it.
Cheers
Tristan
To get on or off this list see list information at
http://www.cs.dartmouth.edu/~wbc/lute-admin/index.html
