Medieval harp

The Medieval harp refers to a family of European harps prevalent during the Medieval period, roughly from the 10th to the 15th centuries. These harps differ significantly from modern concert harps in their construction, size, and playing technique. Typically, Medieval harps were diatonic, meaning they were tuned to a specific scale and lacked mechanisms for easily producing chromatic notes (sharps and flats). Their soundboxes were often carved from a single piece of wood (usually willow, maple, or poplar), and the pillars and necks were often reinforced for stability. String materials varied, including gut, brass, and occasionally even horsehair.

The size of Medieval harps varied, ranging from small lap harps to larger instruments that rested on the floor or were supported by a strap. Smaller harps were more portable and likely used for solo performance and accompaniment, while larger harps may have been used in more formal settings or ensembles. Decoration of the harp could be elaborate, incorporating carving, painting, and gilding.

Medieval harps played an important role in courtly and ecclesiastical life. They were often depicted in illuminated manuscripts, sculptures, and tapestries, providing valuable insights into their construction and usage. The harp was associated with nobility, poetry, and storytelling, and was frequently played by professional musicians (minstrels and bards). The development of the harp during this period paved the way for the more complex and versatile harps of the Renaissance and Baroque eras.