The lute is a stringed musical instrument that has a pear-shaped body and a long neck. It typically has six to ten strings, which are plucked with the fingers or a plectrum. The lute was popular during the Renaissance and Baroque periods, often used in both solo and ensemble performances. Lutes come in various sizes and styles, with the most common being the European lute. The instrument is known for its warm, rich sound, making it suitable for both vocal accompaniment and instrumental music. Today, the lute is still played by musicians interested in historical music and early music traditions.