Set of Five Spanish Turquoise and Silver Miniature Musical Instruments

Set of Five Spanish Turquoise and Silver Miniature Musical Instruments
Spain, Late 19th Century
Comprising five pieces
Smallest (harp): Height 13.5cm, width 8cm, depth 5cm
Largest (cello): Height 16cm, width 5.5cm, depth 5.5cm
 
Produced in the late 19th century, this refined set of miniature musical instruments was most likely created in Spain, where silversmiths were renowned for crafting finely detailed decorative objects in silver. Reflecting the period’s fascination with musical themes in domestic interiors, the set combines ornamental richness with careful attention to form and proportion.
 
The ensemble consists of five string instruments: a classical guitar, a lyre-shaped guitar with two feet, a bell-shaped ukulele (tiple), a cello, and a free-standing harp. Each instrument is accurately rendered in miniature, demonstrating a high level of craftsmanship in both structure and surface detailing.
 
The classical guitar, lyre-shaped guitar, and bell-shaped ukulele feature vibrant turquoise bodies framed in silver, with applied strings and intricate mounts. Each of these is presented on square turquoise plinth bases for display. The cello is executed entirely in silver, with engraved and applied ornament, and is likewise raised on a matching turquoise plinth. The harp, combining a silver structure with turquoise detail, stands independently on its shaped base, completing the set with a sculptural presence.
 
All pieces are formed of silver and turquoise and are individually decorated with delicate floral motifs, some incorporating finely worked female mask ornament, characteristic of late 19th-century decorative taste. Several elements bear standard ‘925’ sterling silver marks, along with an engraved maker’s mark, likely identifying the workshop responsible for their production.
 
Showcasing both technical skill and decorative elegance, this miniature set is a charming example of late 19th-century Continental silverwork, conceived as a sophisticated display ensemble celebrating the art of music.