Pandurina and Two Milanese Mandolines by William Gibb

Pandurina and Two Milanese Mandolines by William Gibb

C. 1888

Chromolithograph

This exquisite late nineteenth-century illustration, titled Pandurina and Two Milanese Mandolines, captures three intricately crafted historic stringed instruments: a small 1734 discant lute known as a pandurina (left) alongside two Milanese mandolines detailed with mother-of-pearl, tortoiseshell, and ivory inlays from 1775 and 1739 (center and right). Created by the celebrated Scottish artist and master illustrator William Gibb, this artwork was produced as a vibrant chromolithograph and published in 1888. The print demonstrates remarkable visual fidelity, skillfully replicating the luxurious textures of the wood grains, fine ivory filigree, and polished finishes of these delicate chamber instruments against a soft, sage-green background. This plate provides an accurate historical record of these rare Italian instruments, documenting their physical forms and decorative craftsmanship during the late nineteenth century.

This plate was originally produced for the landmark publication Musical Instruments, Historic, Rare and Unique, written by musicologist Alfred James Hipkins. During the late nineteenth century, a growing European fascination with ethnomusicology and antiquarianism fueled a desire to visually preserve rare cultural artifacts before they disappeared. Gibb became highly celebrated for his exceptional ability to translate the complex textures of historic objects into print media.

Dimensions: H 11 ¾” x 16”W

Condition: In very good condition