Theorbe Collection

Arch lute (1), mandolin (2) and mandola (3). Copperplate engraving by John Lee after a drawing by T
FLO4594001 Arch lute (1), mandolin (2) and mandola (3). Copperplate engraving by John Lee after a drawing by T. Webster from Abraham Rees Cyclopedia or Universal Dictionary of Arts

Shepherd of ancient Morea or Peloponnese, playing a pipe near his goats 1
FLO4576780 Shepherd of ancient Morea or Peloponnese, playing a pipe near his goats 1, and troubadour of modern Greece playing a fight-like instrument near a fountain for a pipe-smoking audience

Ancient Greek and Roman musical instruments, 1802 (handcoloured copperplate engraving)
FLO4575253 Ancient Greek and Roman musical instruments, 1802 (handcoloured copperplate engraving); (add.info.: Ancient Greek and Roman musical instruments: different forms of lyres or harps 1, 3, 4)

Summer Evening Wear from Art Gout Beaute, 1922
BAL15179 Summer Evening Wear from Art Gout Beaute, 1922 by Barbier, Georges (1882-1932); John Jesse, London, UK

Theorbo, made by Giovanni Krebar, Padua, 1629, from Musical Instruments
STC83410 Theorbo, made by Giovanni Krebar, Padua, 1629, from Musical Instruments by (coloured litho) by Hipkins, Alfred James (1826-1903); Private Collection; The Stapleton Collection; British

Theorbo, 1637
BAL1057 Theorbo, 1637 by Sallas, Matteo (17th century); Victoria & Albert Museum, London, UK; Italian, out of copyright

Vanitas Still Life
CH20843 Vanitas Still Life by Roestraten, Pieter Gerritsz. van (c.1630-1700); Private Collection; Photo eChristies Images; Dutch, out of copyright

A lady and gentleman in a landscape
CH19499 A lady and gentleman in a landscape by Wilson, Benjamin (1721-88); Private Collection; Photo eChristies Images; English, out of copyright

BridgemanArt Full Collection
OneVisionArt BridgemanArt Full Collection

A couple making music
BAL82418 A couple making music by Werff, Adriaan van der (1659-1722); 48x35.5 cm; Johnny van Haeften Gallery, London, UK; Dutch, out of copyright

A Young Man Playing a Theorbo and a Young Woman Playing a Cittern, c
XCF22618 A Young Man Playing a Theorbo and a Young Woman Playing a Cittern, c.1630-32 (oil on canvas) by Molenaer, Jan Miense (1610-68); 68x84 cm; National Gallery, London, UK; Dutch, out of copyright

The Family Concert, c. 1750 (oil on canvas)
XAL227118 The Family Concert, c.1750 (oil on canvas) by Longhi, Pietro (c.1701-85); 62x50 cm; Ca Rezzonico, Museo del Settecento, Venice; Italian, out of copyright

Virgin and Child with Angels, detail of Angel Musicians, 1536-38 (oil on panel)
XIR221472 Virgin and Child with Angels, detail of Angel Musicians, 1536-38 (oil on panel) by Lopez, Gregorio (c.1490-1550); National Museum of Ancient Art, Lisbon

A Concert, late 16th century (oil on canvas)
XIR206933 A Concert, late 16th century (oil on canvas) by Florentine School, (16th century); 180.5x131.5 cm; Louvre, Paris, France; Italian, out of copyright

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The theorbo, a captivating instrument with its long neck and multiple strings, has been an integral part of music history. Its origins can be traced back to the Renaissance period when it was known as the lute or mandore. With its resonant sound and intricate design, it quickly gained popularity among musicians. In the 17th century, the theorbo underwent some modifications that gave it a distinctive appearance. The addition of extra bass strings allowed for a wider range of notes to be played, making it ideal for accompanying vocal performances such as in Monteverdi's "Rape of Love. " This copperplate engraving by John Lee showcases the elegance and craftsmanship of this instrument. Theorbo enthusiasts will appreciate Giovanni Krebar's masterpiece from Padua in 1629. This particular specimen is beautifully crafted and represents the pinnacle of Italian instrument-making during that time. It exudes both artistry and functionality, making it a prized possession for any musician. Throughout history, artists have depicted scenes featuring the theorbo being played alongside other instruments like Spanish guitars or citterns. These paintings capture moments filled with harmony and joy as couples or families come together to create music. Theorbo's unique timbre adds depth to these compositions, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Even in religious settings, such as Virgin and Child paintings or Vanitas still lifes depicting angel musicians playing their heavenly tunes on theorbos; this instrument holds significance beyond entertainment value. Its presence symbolizes beauty and spirituality intertwined. As we explore various artworks showcasing this remarkable instrument like "A Concert" from late 16th century or "The Family Concert" from c1750s; we are reminded of how music transcends time and connects people across generations. Whether you're an avid collector fascinated by historical musical instruments or simply someone who appreciates beautiful melodies - let us celebrate the enduring legacy of the theorbo.