9th Mar, 2023 10:30
Spring Specialist Sale
Antiquities - Bronze 'Jew's Harp' or Jaw Harp musical instrument
Antiquities - 'Jew's Harp' or Jaw Harp lamellophone (musical instrument), lacking reed, 7cm high, on museum type display stand, 18.8cm overall
The origin of the term 'Jews Harp' is uncertain - but is rather unlikely to refer to the Jewish people. Some have connected it to an Early English (Anglo Saxon) word 'jue', or to a corruption of 'jaws' due to the shape. The synonym jaw harp may therefore predate 'Jews Harp'. It was intended to be plucked, or tapped like a tuning fork, the (missing) reed vibrating within the frame, which rests against the user's teeth or mouth to enhance the sound.
Sold for £40
Antiquities - 'Jew's Harp' or Jaw Harp lamellophone (musical instrument), lacking reed, 7cm high, on museum type display stand, 18.8cm overall
The origin of the term 'Jews Harp' is uncertain - but is rather unlikely to refer to the Jewish people. Some have connected it to an Early English (Anglo Saxon) word 'jue', or to a corruption of 'jaws' due to the shape. The synonym jaw harp may therefore predate 'Jews Harp'. It was intended to be plucked, or tapped like a tuning fork, the (missing) reed vibrating within the frame, which rests against the user's teeth or mouth to enhance the sound.
Auction: Spring Specialist Sale, 9th Mar, 2023
Our Spring Specialist Sale of Fine Furniture, Modern Design, Paintings, Prints, Silver, Jewellery, Watches, Ceramics, Glassware & other Collectors Items.
Viewing
Wednesday 8th March 10am to 5pm
