The archlute is a stringed musical instrument that originated in the late Renaissance and was popular during the Baroque period. It is a member of the lute family and features a long neck and a large body, which allows for a rich, resonant sound. The archlute typically has 13 strings, including both courses and a single bass string, enabling it to play both melody and harmony. This instrument is often associated with the works of composers like Giovanni Girolamo Kapsberger and Silvius Leopold Weiss, who wrote music specifically for it. The archlute is known for its unique shape, which resembles a lute but has an extended fingerboard, making it easier to play complex passages.