This instrument is unlike traditional hardanger fiddle, it has a narrowed body,
extremely high arches of the soundboard
and bottom, almost flat fingerboard and
bridge, sympathetic strings present, and
the tuning system. The finial: a lion’s
carved head. The soundboard, bottom
and frames have under-lacquer painting in black paint: a dragon, entrelacs.
Grooved carving on the pegbox walls.
The Fingerboard and string holder
are pasted with horn plates encrusted
with bone.
This beautiful instrument is a Norwegian violin, which received its name after the region Hardanger in the western port of Norway. Since the 17th century it has been the most popular folk instrument in Norway. The hardanger fiddle was used for dancing, accompanied by rhythmic loud foot stomping. It was also traditional for the fiddler to lead the bridal procession to the church.
