The instrument’s fancy mahogany, spruce, ebony and gilded brass appealed to the wealthy, and its classical shape, emulating the Greek lyre so treasured by Napoleon’s art designers, made a handsome piece of furniture when not in use. When it was in use mostly it was fashionable women who strummed and plucked, often accompanying friends or family. Its bass notes were stronger than a guitar, though less vibrant, and it was more awkward to hold than a guitar, which probably accounted for its short-lived popularity. Though the lyre guitar was made by a number of European makers, it was most popular in France. The exhibition closes 27 January.

To see more glitter and gold from Napoleon’s empire, see the MFA website at http://www.mfa.org/napoleon/exhibition.htm