Bass Viol and Bow

Hendrik Jacobs, c. 1680

The bass viol was used as a solo instrument or to provide the bass line in chamber music ensembles. Its six strings are played with a bow held underhand. This instrument was made by Hendrik Jacobs, one of the most important 17th-century Dutch violin makers. The Italian term viola da gamba denotes that these instruments were played while resting on the leg.

  • Artwork typebowed instrument, musical instrument, stringed instrument, viola da gamba
  • Object numberBK-2016-98-1
  • Dimensionsheight 122.5 cm x width 40 cm x depth 70 cm
  • Physical characteristicssparrenhout, esdoornhout, darm, zilver