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The Gold Lyre of Ur

Explore the 4,500 year story of the Mesopotamian Golden Lyre in five minutes. A startling instrument with its brightly shining bull’s head, gleaming lapis lazuli and shining mother of pearl decorations which was painstakingly recreated over three years by volunteers. Learn a little more about this amazing ancestor of the modern day harp with Accredited Lecturer Jennifer Sturdy.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Our Societies support hundreds of local arts and heritage projects. Each day we highlight a grant given in 2021.  

The Arts Society North Bucks is supporting the Olney Heritage Trail which is a joint initiative between the Olney Archaeological Society, the Cowper and Newton Museum and the local council. The project was delayed by the pandemic but planning and work to complete it is now underway.

All donations from the Artvent Calendar will go towards The Arts Society’s grant giving fund, which awards grants to help preserve our artistic heritage, support the skills of artists and makers, and improve access to the arts for all.

Please click here to support projects like this one by making a Donation.

Comments

Best one so far

Eliane Thu, 09/12/2021 - 18:49 Permalink

I don't know if it's possible to see the replica but I believe there is a reconstructed lyre on display at The British Museum.

johnmac Thu, 09/12/2021 - 18:10 Permalink

I am enjoying this Artvent Calendar very much. Thank you to all concerned with the project.
And thank you to the team who brought this wonderful instrument back to life. I would love to know more about it and hear more of the singing and music, which was haunting and magical.

daphne Thu, 09/12/2021 - 17:48 Permalink

What a surprise! It feels like a dream that we should be looking at such an extraordinary ancient Lyra brought back to life! Congratulations to all concerned! Thank you!

Francesca Bratley Thu, 09/12/2021 - 17:37 Permalink

A wonderful project; well done everyone, craftspeople, musicians and the team responsible for bringing this beautiful instrument back to life.

Margaret Haywood Thu, 09/12/2021 - 17:37 Permalink

What a magnificent instrument, the story was delightful and the singing against the instrument was most thrilling.

Jane Thu, 09/12/2021 - 17:22 Permalink

Another lovely treat. Again - thank you

Niki Thu, 09/12/2021 - 16:47 Permalink

I am really enjoying the delightful variety of advent jewels you have put together so far. Thank you to the organisers or editors it must have been hard to choose!

Angela Brignell Thu, 09/12/2021 - 16:24 Permalink

This is a fascinating story, and the playing and singing a lovely bonus. would so like to hear more about the instrument.

Hazel Beaumont Thu, 09/12/2021 - 16:23 Permalink

What a wonderful instrument. Is it possible to see this replica? If so, where?

Sheila Thu, 09/12/2021 - 16:14 Permalink