What is pardessus de viole?

Pardessus de viole is a small string instrument, similar to a viola da gamba, that was popular in the Baroque and Rococo periods of music. It is played with a bow and typically has six strings, tuned to the pitches of a treble viol. The pardessus de viole was often used in chamber music settings, especially in France, and was considered to be an instrument of refinement and elegance. Some famous composers who wrote for the pardessus de viole include Marin Marais, François Couperin, and Jean-Baptiste Forqueray. Today, the pardessus de viole is a relatively rare instrument, but it is still played by a small number of musicians who are dedicated to preserving its unique sound and repertoire.