IO 
NOTES ON THE ILLUSTRATIONS. 
VIOLA. DA-GAMBA. 
The Viola-da-Gamba, or leg viol, derives its name from its 
having been held between the knees of the player, hence the 
German call it “ Kniegeige.” It formed the bass of a “ chest of 
viols,” much used in the 17th century. 
In the 1 8th century the Viola-da-Gamba was replaced by the 
violoncello, which became more popular with composers. 
This splendid specimen was made by the celebrated Joachim 
Tielke, at Hamburg, in 1602. He was considered the finest 
instrument maker in the world at that time. 
It is in perfect preservation, and, with the exception of the 
neck, is just as the great master left it. It has a beautifully 
carved peg-box (at one time relieved with gold), which is 
surmounted by a woman’s head, quite characteristic of this 
maker. 
The profile of the head is very good, though a little worn. 
Taken as a whole, it is an exceptionally fine example of art 
workmanship in stringed instruments. 
For playing purposes, the old broad finger-board and neck 
have been removed, without in any way interfering with the 
beauty of the instrument. 
But from an antiquarian point of view, we should have pre- 
ferred it with its original neck. 
The following is a facsimile of the label : — 
JOACHIM TIELKE. 
tn j)<mt6urg r 1 602 
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