French continuo theorbo

 

This was made by Michael Lowe and is a scaled-up version of the converted small French theorbo in Yale University. It is tuned in A with two re-entrant strings, has 6 stopped strings and 8 diapasons, with string lengths of 83cm and 144cm. The single rose, broad-ribbed back, offset upper head and pierced lower pegbox are all typical features seen in French iconography, as well as on the Yale instrument. This instrument is tuned the same as an Italian theorbo, but has significantly shorter strings, a much deeper body, and a much less nasal sound. It is ideal for playing continuo for late 17th and early 18th century French works, such as the operas of Lully and Marais, airs de cour with continuo parts, and instrumental chamber music.

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