Baroque Lute after NMM10213

The original of this lute is an interesting study in the methods that Edlinger employed.  The triple rose, from an older lute, is inset as separate pieces. The 11 rib bird's eye maple bowl of the original is peculiar because it is beautifully designed but oddly constructed. The  cross-section of the bowl is asymmetrical because three outer ribs are misaligned. If Edlinger constructed it, as is now believed, then it is an example of 18th century lute making which is sometimes characterized by indifferent workmanship. If it is a reused bowl originally built by Magno Tieffenbrucker, as the label suggests, then it is interesting that even famous makers have off days. Regardless of the pecularities of construction the design produces a superb lute. The instrument has a resonant powerful sound that is lusty and alluring.