This type is known as a Neopolitan mandolin and has 8 wire strings tuned in pairs to the same notes as a violin. These are set in vibration with a plectrum, a tremolo being the usual motion which sets it apart from lutes and guitars etc where the strings are plucked.

There are two types of mandolin – round back, which are usually decorated with inlay mother-of-pearl etc and the flat back.

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