Stringed instruments

Psalmodicon
The museum’s collection holds a large number of psalmodicons, such as this specimen, built in Turku prison in Kakola, acquired to the collection in 1935. The psalmodicon was developed in the early 19th century to improve the quality and conformity of the songs of praise.

Nyckelharpa
Nyckelharpa, a traditional Swedish keyed fiddle, on of the early donations to the museum’s collection. The instrument was donated by athlete and veterinarian Fredrik Svanström, whose family was believed to have owned the instrument since early 19th century. Nyckelharpa is the national instrument in Sweden.

Jouhikko
Jouhikko, bowed lyre, built by Juho Villanen in 1916 was donated to the museum in 1932.

Kantele
The donator of this kantele, Vera Hjelt, told to have received the instrument as a child from Elias Lönnrot’s foster daughter Mathilda Holm, who told that the instrument was built under Lönnrot’s supervision as is strung by him.