James Bailey Seven-Course Renaissance Lute (1971) with Original Bailey-Made Coffin Case

This seven-course Renaissance lute was made for me in 1971 by James Bailey and has remained my personal instrument ever since. It is offered together with its original, custom-made coffin case, built by Bailey specifically for this lute and preserved with it for more than five decades.

The instrument is modeled on a bassett-type lute after Hans Frei (active c. 1510–1545, Füssen / Vienna), one of the most influential makers of the early German Renaissance tradition. Bailey’s work from this period reflects the serious engagement with historical sources characteristic of the early American early-music revival, combining faithful proportions with dependable craftsmanship and musical reliability.

Having been my personal lute for over fifty years, it has been carefully maintained throughout its life. The lute remains in excellent condition, with no repairs required, and is fully playable and structurally sound. The original Bailey-made coffin case fits the instrument precisely and has protected it since new; cases of this quality and correctness are rarely found with vintage revival lutes and represent a significant added value.

About the Maker James Bailey was part of the first generation of American makers active in the modern revival of historically informed lute construction during the 1960s and 1970s. Working outside a commercialized market, his instruments were built primarily for individual musicians and informed by close study of original Renaissance models. Examples from this early period, especially those with clear provenance, are increasingly uncommon.

Historical Note Hans Frei was among the most important lute makers of the early 16th century, active in Füssen and later Vienna. Instruments associated with Frei’s workshop set enduring standards for Renaissance lute design and continue to serve as primary reference models for historically informed makers today.

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a single-owner Renaissance lute with complete provenance, including its original maker’s case. It is well suited for performance, study, or inclusion in a serious collection focused on historically informed instruments of the early-music revival.