Antique German Chord Zither, Harp Guitar Zither with Rose Decal, Stringed Folk Instrument, Markneukirchen Style, Circa 1900

An antique German chord zither (Akkordzither) of the guitar-zither type, dating to the early 20th century. This desktop stringed instrument features a dark lacquered finish decorated with a lithographed floral decal depicting a red rose and a yellow rosebud, as well as an integrated paper musical scale and note indicator strip.

Instruments of this type were highly popular in German-speaking regions, particularly in the Vogtland region of Saxony. They were specifically designed to allow amateur enthusiasts to play traditional melodies and chordal accompaniments using specially printed underlay sheets without requiring advanced sheet music literacy.

Details and Features:
- Period: Circa 1900–1920
- Technique / Style: Lacquered wooden soundboard, lithographed floral decal decoration, paper note indicator
- Size: Width: 41 cm (16.1 inches), Height: 53 cm (20.9 inches), Depth: 5 cm (2.0 inches)
- Material: Wood, steel wire strings, paper, metal tuning pins
- Condition: Authentic antique condition. Shows visible signs of use, including patina on metal components and surface wear to the lacquer. All original parts and completeness of strings are not verified, and the playability is not tested. Sold primarily as a collectible, decorative object, or for restoration.

This piece represents a historical artifact of European domestic music culture, making it highly suitable for collectors of vintage musical instruments, theatrical set designers, or unique historical decor.