Category: Music

Lyre Cases

1/12/2019

Previously we unveiled reconstructions of two early Anglo-Saxon lyres based on remains from princely burials (link). Lyres were extremely precious and sensitive objects, so deserved special protection from knocks, but also from the constant wide changes in temperature and humidity which occurred daily both within and outside Anglo-Saxon halls. Many archaeological examples both from lowland Britain and contemporary graves in Europe show signs of repair in antiquity. The most extreme example, the Prittlewell lyre appears to have been cracked on both sides, and carefully pieced back together using small metal riveted strips acting as staples.

Thankfully these burials also provide archaeological clues regarding the measures the Anglo-Saxons took to protect their musical instruments, with tantalising traces of cases.
Partly based on these remains, here we present two alternative forms of lyre case which may have been used in the period, reconstructed by members Andrew and Æd Thompson.

Comments

Two Princely c7th Anglo-Saxon Lyres

30/9/2019

Comments

Few objects in early Anglo-Saxon archaeology are more evocative, than the so-called “warrior-lyres” or “hearpes” which have gradually emerged from analysis of mostly quite poorly preserved remains from some of the most famous 6-7th century burials. For those exploring this historic period, they also possess a unique power – transmitting to us another sensory dimension to enrich our sense of the Anglo-Saxon world. With accurately built replica lyres, we are granted the unique opportunity experience the sound of the 6-7th century mead hall, echoing across the centuries, which accompanied the first recorded stories and poems in our language.

In autumn 2018, member Æd Thompson (having previously produced Dreamgifu – a reasonably faithful replica of the perfectly preserved 6th century Alemannic lyre from Trossingen) embarked on a project to produce two new lyres, of the (in some ways) more challenging Anglo-Saxon design.

Comments

Replica Trossingen Lyre

5/12/2017

Comments

In autumn 2017, member Æd Thompson was commissioned by fellow Thegns member Julia to produce a warrior lyre (hearpe) based on the uniquely well-preserved example from a 6th century chamber burial in Trossingen, South Germany.

This was Æd's first attempt at luthiery, and, we hope, captures the artistry of the the find on which it is based, and will serve to highlight the importance of music and performance in Migration-Age warrior culture, and the way in which our skilled ancestors applied wonderful craftsmanship not just to their now much celebrated metalwork, but also to more rarely preserved organic items.

Comments

Lyre Cases

Two Princely c7th Anglo-Saxon Lyres

Replica Trossingen Lyre

Thegns Blog

Archives

Categories