Apollo Model Lyre Harp Guitar, labeled Edward Light, c. 1817, made in London, gold leaf, varnish finish, spuce top.
This was the third of three harp-like designs developed by London organist Edward Light (b. 1747). Later versions by Light were more lyre in style. Most had a multiple stave construction for the back, making this one piece version somewhat out of the ordinary.
These instruments were most likely made by Barry & Harley of London, who were craftsmen active from 1798 to 1820. Light advertised in the London Times, 27th of January, 1817, his improved lyre of 12 strings. Around 1813, T. Bolton wrote a tutor for the Edward Light Harp-lute and Apollo Lyre.
Similar to the extant example in London's Victoria and Albert Museum, this unique instrument was first publicized in 1815. The Harp-lute, and somewhat more common six string Lyre-guitar and Harp-guitar, became popular for a brief period "reflecting times when ladies' fashions extended to small musical instruments, in this case married to the neo-classical pose" (Baines).
Recent re-gilding of sun ray pattern rosette and lyre arms. Overall Excellent + Condition.
