Skip to main content
Hammered dulcimer
Hammered dulcimer
Hammered dulcimer

Hammered dulcimer

Date1865-1875 ca.
Place MadeUnited States, North America
Modelnone
Serial No.none
Signednone
Markingsnone
DescriptionRectangular wooden case (walnut) with hinged lid (decorative brass lock) and top molding simulating a writing desk; lid interior padded and lined with green linen, secured with red edging and small iron tacks; 2 front-oriented cabriole legs, 2 straight rear legs – not detachable; applied molding with hand-carved scalloped edge with dots; case stained and varnished throughout; metal chain supports lid.

Integral trapezoidal dulcimer with thin backboard/bottom; 9 double-strung treble courses, 4 double-strung bass courses; one-piece crenellated treble bridge and 4 individual bass bridges (flat, not chessman style); 26 tuning pins inserted into left-side pin block; 13 standard screws inserted into right-side pin block; continuous stringing; soundboard stained, unvarnished; 2 “s”-shaped soundholes to left of central bridge

The backboard/bottom is quite thin, a result of the instrument being built into a case. However, this also suggests an older vintage. Gifford describes this type of instrument as transitional, as it’s built into a rectangular case and has a trapezoidal shape.

DimensionsOverall height: 35-3/4 in (909 mm)
Case dimensions without legs (LxWxH):
41-1/4 in (1046 mm) x 17 in (432 mm) x 10-1/2 in (266 mm)
ProvenanceArne B. Larson Collection, Vermillion, South Dakota, 1979.
Credit LineArne B. Larson Collection, 1979
Object number01325
On View
Not on view
Hammered dulcimer
1850-1875 ca.
Hammered dulcimer
1850-1900 ca.
Hammered dulcimer
1885-1910 ca.
Grand piano
William Stodart
1820-1821 ca.
Square piano
George Astor
1797-1800 ca.
We use cookies to ensure we give you the best experience on our website. By continuing to use this site or by closing or clicking "I agree", you agree to the use of cookies. I agree