Gittern/Koboz/Mandolin by Paul Baker

Paul Baker Medieval Elblag Koboz / Gittern - Mandolin

Tuning (GDAE) + Case & Extra Strings

Rare Paul Baker Elbląg Koboz (Medieval Gittern) - Tuned in Mandolin 5ths (GDAE).

Up for sale is a beautiful, highly specialized medieval plectrum instrument handmade by renowned UK luthier Paul Baker (Diabolus in Musica). This instrument is a faithful handmade reconstruction based on the famous 15th-century archaeological find in Elblag, Poland. While historically a modal instrument, this specific build is set up in standard Mandolin tuning (GDAE). This makes it an incredibly accessible crossover instrument for folk musicians, mandolin players, and early music enthusiasts alike who want a unique, historical voice without learning a completely new fretboard layout.

Here's the makers summary:

"This is a reconstruction of an instrument recently discovered during an archaeological dig in Elblag, in Poland. It is one of several instruments found in a latrine, where conditions preserved the wood remarkably well. It is usually called the Elblag Gittern but after much research and experimentation, and lengthy

correspondence with the staff of Elbag Museum, we are now convinced that it is a medieval version of the Koboz (or cobza), an instrument which is still commonly played in eastern Europe"

Reluctant sale but unfortunately hand issues have made this difficult to play. Sale includes a modified violin case and spare nylgut strings and appropriate fret gut. To hear how it sounds (un fretted in standard tuning) search YouTube (Ian Pittaway - Koboz) where there are numerous examples of how it sounds. In my opinion in Mandolin tuning with gut frets it has a percussive sound reminiscent of a gut strung baroque mandolin.

A brand-new custom commission for this instrument from Paul Baker currently costs around £1,500 with a lengthy waitlist-skip the queue and save significantly.

What is Included: The Paul Baker Elblag Koboz

Modified Violin Hard Case: Form-fitted to safely secure the instruments unique during transit and storage. Full Spare Set of Aquila Nylgut Strings, Fretting gut.

Item Specific Condition:

Used but excellent condition recently re strung. Brand:

Paul Baker (Diabolus in Musica)

Model: Elblag Koboz / Gittern Instrument: Mandolin-tuned historical stringed instrument Number of Strings: 9/

4 Courses (Tuned G-D-A-E) note the top course is triple strung but could be double strung. 340mm string length.

Country/Region of Manufacture: United Kingdom

Included Accessories: Modified Violin Hard Case, Spare Set of Aquila Nylgut Strings, fretting gut.

Shipping & Collection:

The instrument will be packed with absolute care, with tension detuned slightly for safe transit. Buyers are welcome to collect in person or alternatively can arrange their own collection by a commercial company. I will pack it securely boxed for postage and as soon as the item is collected responsibility passes to the buyers courier. If you intend to use this option please message me before purchasing. Alternatively I will send it insured via Parcelforce 24 Cost £45

UK buyers only

Please feel free to message me with any questions or if you would like specific photos!