archlute

The archlute, also called arch-lute, is a type of plucked string instrument in the lute family. It is distinguished by its arched back, a feature that influences its tone and projection, and by a relatively long neck capable of supporting multiple courses of strings.

Construction and range: The instrument typically has a pear-shaped resonator with a deep, vaulted back. It carries many strings, usually 11 to 13 courses, including bass courses extended beyond the body. It is fretted and plucked with the right hand, while the left hand frets the courses along the neck. Its design places bass sonority in a higher register than some Renaissance lutes, enabling rich continuo lines.

History and use: The archlute emerged in late Renaissance to early Baroque Europe, especially in Italy and Germany. It was used for continuo realization in vocal and instrumental works, and also for solo repertoire oriented toward intricate intabulations and virtuosic phrasing. It sits in the lineage of long-neck lutes alongside the theorbo and chitarrone.

Decline and revival: The archlute's popularity declined in the 18th century as keyboard and other instruments assumed the continuo role. In the 20th century, early music revivalists rediscovered and rebuilt the instrument, leading to performances informed by historical playing practices.

Modern practice: Today archlutes are built by specialty luthiers for use in period ensembles and scholarly ensembles. They are employed in historically informed performances of Baroque repertoire and in reconstructive projects exploring lute-based continuo textures.