requintive

The requintive is a rare and historically obscure musical instrument that belongs to the family of bowed string instruments. Its name derives from the French term *requinte*, meaning "sharp" or "acute," which likely refers to its high-pitched sound. The requintive is closely related to the viol family, particularly the smaller members such as the viol da gamba or the violino piccolo, but it is distinguished by its unique size and tuning.

The instrument typically features four or five strings, tuned in fifths or fourths, similar to other viols. Its body is usually made of wood, with a rounded back and a flat top, though exact construction details vary by region and period. The requintive was most commonly used in European courts and aristocratic circles during the Renaissance and early Baroque periods, particularly in France and Italy, where it was favored for its expressive, delicate tone.

Little is known about the requintive’s exact origins, but it appears in early 17th-century manuscripts and treatises on music. Some scholars suggest it may have evolved from earlier instruments like the *viola da braccio* or the *viola pomposa*, though its precise lineage remains speculative. The requintive was often played in ensembles, accompanying vocal music or serving as a solo instrument in chamber settings.

By the mid-17th century, the instrument fell out of favor as the violin and other bowed instruments gained prominence. Today, the requintive is a curiosity among historical instrument enthusiasts and early music performers. Modern reconstructions and performances of the instrument are rare but contribute to the revival of Renaissance and Baroque musical traditions. Its sound is described as bright, agile, and capable of delicate ornamentation, making it a unique voice in historical repertoire.