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Viola

1884
Not on view
John C. Harris taught music and performed as a clarinetist, violinist, and band leader in Albany, New York. He was also a violin maker and was listed in city directories between 1871 and 1881. The printed label indicates that this was his sixtfh viola (the violas are numbered separately from his violins). This viola was presented to the Museum by his widow in 1906.

Description: Softwood front with f holes, two-piece back of maple, crudely done purfling; ebony pegs and tailpiece; with bow.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Viola
  • Maker: John C. Harris (American, Salem, New York 1824–1886 Cambridge, New York)
  • Date: 1884
  • Geography: Albany, NY, United States
  • Culture: American
  • Medium: Wood, ebony
  • Dimensions: Total L.: 64.5 cm (25-1/2 in.)
    W. of fingerboard cm (2 in.);
    D. of edge at tailpiece: 4.3 cm (1-3/4 in.)
  • Classification: Chordophone-Lute-bowed-unfretted
  • Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. H. M. S. Harris, 1906
  • Object Number: 06.185a, b
  • Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments

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