seeking advice on lyre-guitar

[Christopher Davies]

I've acquired a lyre guitar that appears to be dated 1801, Lavary Fils A Paris

Does anyone have any experience with these such that you can recommend weak points or other issues I might want to be aware of as I bring it up to string tension? It seems to be in quite good shape.

Also, anyone familiar with this builder and can share any information? Thankyou. 

I will try to post pictures but they seem to be too large to load.....

[Christopher Davies]

I'm also curious to know what the number 18011 means.....1811? 1801? the same maker's label appears under the other soundhole, and appears to just say 1801, though there is a dirt smudge which could obscure another digit...

[Jelma van Amersfoort]

Probably Savary, a known instrument maker. Google "Savary luthier". Congratulations, a very attractive instrument!

[Christopher Davies]

If when I'm able to peer in with an endoscope I find loose braces, it would seem one ought to go in through the bottom, and I'm guessing first step is to remove the base edging with care. Again, if anyone has done this and can advice, I'd appreciate it.

[Sinier de Ridder]

Hello Christopher, in fact this guitar was made in Mirecourt (like just maybe 80% of the guyitars of this period) and the bracing is probably closed to this one …… the soundholes are typically from Mirecourt, 

best regards

Françoise