Citole

Vielle or Citole and Gittern Tuning

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Woman with cittern 1677 by Pieter van Slingeland

Citole All Souls College Oxford, MS vii, f7

Citole cropped

Brunetto Latini "Li livres dou tresor" Mermaid with 5-point citole

Citole was a stringed musical instrument, popular in medieval Europe, particularly during the 12th to 14th centuries. It was a precursor to the modern guitar and shared similarities with other contemporary instruments like the lute, gittern, and mandore. The citole had a distinctive shape, often described as being pear-shaped or having an elongated, box-like body with a rounded end. It typically featured four to five strings, although variations existed, and was played with a plectrum or the fingers.

History

The origins of the citole are somewhat obscure, but it is believed to have evolved from earlier instruments like the Byzantine lyra or the lira da braccio. Its development reflects the rich musical culture of medieval Europe, where instruments were adapted and evolved to suit changing musical tastes and styles. The citole was mentioned in various literary and historical texts of the time, indicating its popularity and widespread use across different European regions.

Design and Construction

The body of the citole was made from a single piece of wood, carved into its distinctive shape. The soundboard, typically made from spruce or another resonant wood, was added to the top. The strings were made from gut and stretched over a movable bridge to the pegbox, which was often intricately carved and positioned at an angle to the body. The frets, made from gut, were tied around the neck, allowing for the adjustment of pitch.

Playing Technique

Players of the citole could employ various techniques, including strumming with a plectrum for rhythmic accompaniment or plucking the strings with fingers for more melodic play. The instrument's repertoire likely included both secular and sacred music, ranging from simple tunes to complex polyphonic pieces. The citole's sound was described as soft and melodious, suitable for intimate settings and smaller venues.

Decline and Legacy

By the end of the 14th century, the popularity of the citole began to wane, overshadowed by the emergence of new instruments like the vielle and the early forms of the guitar. However, its influence persisted, contributing to the development of stringed instruments in the Renaissance and beyond. The transition from the citole to the cittern and eventually to the modern guitar illustrates the evolutionary path of musical instruments in response to changing artistic and cultural demands.

Surviving Examples

Few physical examples of the citole have survived to the present day, with most knowledge of the instrument coming from artistic depictions and literary references. These sources depict the citole in various contexts, from courtly entertainment to religious ceremonies, highlighting its versatility and widespread appeal.

Conclusion

The citole played a significant role in the musical life of medieval Europe, reflecting the era's artistic and cultural dynamism. While it may no longer be a familiar instrument to modern audiences, its legacy endures in the evolution of stringed instruments and the rich tapestry of medieval music history.