Details
Image(s)
TitleSemi-Mechanical Zither, ‘Triola'
Creator Paul Riessner (instrumentenmaker)
PlaceLeipzig (Germany)
Year ca. 1920
Object number0038
Object categorymechanical plucked string instruments
Object namemechanical zither, string instrument with roll
DescriptionThis mechanical zither plays semi-automatically, meaning that the user still has to play some of the notes manually. The mechanical part is driven by means of a crank. The paper roll for the melody line passes through the roll-reading system and the corresponding strings are played.
Accompanying textsThe 25-note paper roll only contains the program for the higher notes. The bass notes must therefore be played manually. Fortunately, the numbers 1 through 6 notated on the paper roll helpfully indicate which group of bass strings should be plucked at any given moment.
Thousands of the mechanical zither model "Triola" were made up until the 1920s. Paul Riessner patented this type of instrument in 1919.
Thousands of the mechanical zither model "Triola" were made up until the 1920s. Paul Riessner patented this type of instrument in 1919.
Dimensions
geheel height: 23 cm
geheel width: 48 cm
geheel length: 55.5 cm
geheel width: 48 cm
geheel length: 55.5 cm
Digital references