Antique 1894 Harp-Zither – Patent Dated Parlor
Updated August 20, 2026
| Lot number | 4 |
| Category | Antiques & Furniture |
| Auction | LIVE/ONLINE CONSIGNMENT SALE |
| Date | August 25, 2026 at 6:30 PM CDT |
| Auction house | NFN Auctions LLC |
| Location | Hastings, Nebraska |
Antique wooden parlor harp-zither (sometimes marketed historically as a "mandolin-harp"), strung with multiple courses of steel strings over a shaped soundboard with decorative rosette and painted floral/ribbon motif. Chord/fret chart printed on the lower soundboard references a May 29, 1894 patent, dating this piece to the late 19th century. Solid wood body with visible age — finish wear, chipping, and string loss consistent with genuine antique condition (shown in photos) Zither pins along the upper edge for tuning Sound hole with ornate painted border Great piece for antique instrument collectors, folk art displays, or restoration projects Condition note: finish is heavily worn/chipped, and some strings appear missing or loose
