Two samples of our method in medieval instruments making.
First, the reconstruction of a Cetra from XII century sculpture by Benedetto Antelami in Parma Baptistery,
second, a reconstruction of a Viella from Moissac Abbey XII century doorgate.
In both cases the same proceeding has been followed:
- Carving the instrument “back to front” in one piece of Fir
- Refining carefully the soundboard inside and outside, following a curved profile
- Gluing a flat back (Poplar, Fir).
CETRA
Copying a traditionally carved medieval Cetra outline
Inside view of soundboard
Carving the soundboard outside.
An elegant back added (Poplar)
Diapason cm. 34,5
total weight gr.790
Listen to the sound of italian Cetra:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4aAYOYmaxuc
CONCLUSIONS:
This method allows us:
1. to shape a rounded surface, as in Violin making, instead of getting the usual easy-to-make flat sound-board,
2. to reproduce a curved body from a curved plank, as in the case of Moissac Viella:
VIELLA
PROPORTIONS: (vibrating string lenght being the fundamental parameter)
BC / AB = 2/1
BC / AC = 2/3
EF / AD = 1/4
EF / AB = 4/5.
I cut the soundholes approx. at the right depht previously.
Drawing the inner space of soundbox
Here we got very close to the right thickness of the soundboard.
The soundboard is finished
Back is ready to be glued
The instrument is almost finished
Brown colour added. Almond-oil and wax coating, no varnish.
Diapason cm.30
Total weight gr.220
Salva