1900 Carl Fischer Triumph Zither

$549.00

  • Year: 1900 (Circa)
  • Manufacturer: Carl Fischer
  • Model: Triumph Zither
  • Case: Original Hard
  • Color: Natural Rosewood
  • Condition: Good
  • Description: Although the Carl Fischer label is prominently featured in the soundhole of this zither, it is likely that it was manufactured by another company to be sold in Carl Fischer's store. This alpine or concert Triumph zither was probably made in Europe - the tuning pins are reverse threaded indicative of zithers made in Germany and Austria. It is also difficult to date. Hundreds of thousands of zithers were made at the height of their popularity in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The zither was popularized in the United State by the influx of German and Austrian immigrants in the late 1800s. Zither Clubs were once popular in cities throughout the USA. This is a well made and well used instrument that has survived over 100 years in remarkably good condition. The top, back and sides are made of Brazilian Rosewood and do not show any stress cracks. Both the front and back are bound with layers of white with black celluloid binding. The fretted fingerboard is ebony with 10 mother-of-pearl dot inlays, one of which is missing. "TRIUMPH • ZITHER" is engraved on the upper part of the fretboard. There are three large cracks on the fretboard and there are shallow indentations from the constant tapping of the strings. The zither measures approximately 22.75" x 14." There is no corrosion or rust on the metal parts, strings, tuning pins or frets. Two of the strings were missing and we replaced them with strings of the proper gauge. We did not have any problems tuning the instrument. The frets are in excellent condition. The oval soundhole is surrounded with beautiful mother-of-pearl inlay and bound with white celluloid. Three of the original ivory feet have tiny needle like spikes which were probably at one time covered with rubber pads that have long since deteriorated. The decorative gear cover is brass or brass plated. There is also a small oval brass plate with initials and number. Included in the case are several strings and picks, a tuning key, music scores, and an instruction book all from the period. It comes in its original case.