Intarsia Viola da mano (vihuela). Antonio and Paolo Mola. Mantua, 1506-1508
(1506-1508) - Mantua: Grotta of Isabella d’Este.
instrument: viola da mano (vihuela) | century: 16cent/1/early | catalogue nº: 16-125
Artwork
Creator Mola, Antonio and Paolo
Medium Artwork: Intarsia
Location
City Mantua | Region Italy | Old kingdom Mantua
Characteristics
| Body Corners | Strings courses | Neck Long | Pegbox Sickle |
| Bridge Fixed | Frets Yes | Back Flat | Pegs Lateral |
| Technique None |
Commentary
ARTWORK
Intarsia in the grotta of Isabella d’Este in Mantua created between 1506 and 1508. The viola da mano is depicted alongside a viola de arco/lira da braccio? with the same body profile and a thick leaf-shaped pedbox.
INSTRUMENT
Italian viola da mano with unusual half-cornered waist, neck with 10 frets and a sickle-shaped pegbox. The intarsia only depicts two double courses, possibly the 3rd and 6th. The body shape is only cornered on the bottom of the waist -- the upper bouts are curved going into the waist. Elegant, well-proportioned instrument.